FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 21, 2026
For More Information, Contact: Stephanie Becker (Stephanie.Becker@delaware.gov) or 302-744-4294
DOVER, DE – State Representative Mike Smith officially called on Governor Matt Meyer this week to secure Delaware’s participation in the federal scholarship tax credit program. In a formal letter sent on August 17th, Smith emphasized that Delaware families deserve the same educational opportunities currently being seized by 30 other states across the nation.
The program allows individual taxpayers to receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for contributions made to Scholarship-Granting Organizations (SGOs). These organizations then provide scholarships to eligible students to cover tuition, tutoring, and other qualified K-12 expenses.
For Rep. Smith, the mission to expand educational choice is deeply personal. Raised by his Nan alongside his cousins, Smith attended a private school during his youth. Reflecting on his upbringing, Smith noted that having access to a scholarship program like this would have provided much-needed relief and support for his family.
“I know firsthand the sacrifices families make to find the right educational fit for their children,” said Rep. Smith. “Growing up in a full house with my Nan and cousins, I saw how every dollar mattered. A scholarship would have been an incredible help to us then, just as it will be for thousands of Delaware families now who are struggling with rising costs.”
In his letter to the Governor, Representative Smith urged immediate action to bring these federal resources home. “I believe Delaware should take advantage of this opportunity and invest in the future of our communities by expanding access to educational opportunities for Delaware students,” Smith wrote, noting that participation would empower local taxpayers to directly support scholarships in their communities. He respectfully asked the administration to take the necessary steps to elect participation and identify qualifying SGOs for the upcoming 2027 tax year.
Notably, the program provides families with remarkable educational flexibility, as these scholarships can cover a wide range of qualified expenses far beyond private school tuition. Eligible K-12 educational costs include academic tutoring, required textbooks, curriculum materials, and critical learning technology such as computers. Additionally, scholarships can fund specialized educational therapies for students with disabilities, standardized testing fees, and even student transportation services to and from school, ensuring that all aspects of a child’s educational journey are supported
Whether a Delawarean chooses to work with a local, state-based, or national state approved SGO, the federal law requires that those specific contributions be used to fund scholarships for eligible students solely within the state. By opting in, Delaware ensures that the charitable generosity of its residents can benefit Delaware’s own children.
As of July 24, 2026, 30 states have already made the election to participate in the 2027 tax year. Rep. Smith stated, “Because this is a national program, Delawareans’ federal tax dollars are already theoretically helping to fund these credits across the country regardless of whether our state opts in.”
“This is a no-brainer for Delaware,” Smith concluded. “We can empower parents and help students succeed without costing our state taxpayers a single penny. It’s time to seize this opportunity.”
