CJDS EdChoice & EdChoice Expansion Scholarship Guide

For the 2025–2026 School Year (FY26)

Contact: Kristy Kushmaul, Business Manager, kkushmaul@cjds.org

What Is EdChoice?

The Ohio EdChoice Scholarship Program provides state-funded scholarships to help families afford private school tuition. CJDS proudly participates in both EdChoice and EdChoice Expansion.

There are two EdChoice paths:

1. Traditional EdChoice

  • For students living in a low-performing public school district

  • Offers higher scholarship values

  • Based on your home address and assigned school

2. EdChoice Expansion

  • Based on household income

  • Open to any Ohio family, regardless of district

  • Scholarship amount varies depending on income

Step-by-Step: How to Apply

Kristy will personally assist families to make the application process as easy as possible.

Step 1: Complete the FY26 EdChoice Application

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

  • Most recent utility bill (proof of address)

  • Your child’s birth certificate

(Not required if previously submitted in a prior EdChoice application)

  •  Income verification (for Expansion applicants only)

  • Submit directly through the state’s online portal

Step 3: School Submits Application

  • Kristy will submit your complete application to the Ohio Department of Education - She’ll track and communicate updates throughout the process. Make sure you email her your application and required documents asap. 

Step-by-Step: Once you have been approved

  • Once your EdChoice application has been approved, you will receive an approval letter by mail.

  • Please scan and email a copy of this letter to Ms. Kristy (kkushmaul@cjds.org) so she can proceed with the next steps on behalf of the school.

  • Each month, Ms. Kristy will report your child’s attendance to the state, as EdChoice requires regular attendance tracking. Please note that students are permitted no more than 20 absences per school year in order to remain eligible for the scholarship.

  • Once CJDS receives the EdChoice check, Ms. Kristy will contact you to come in and sign it. Both a school representative and a parent/guardian listed on the application are required to sign the check.

How It Affects Your Tuition

EdChoice dollars offset any tuition assistance or discounts you have requested

This helps ensure financial transparency and support for all families

Have Questions?

Every family’s situation is unique.

Contact: Kristy Kushmaul, Business Manager

kkushmaul@cjds.org   614-939-5311 ex: 3102

Why It Matters to CJDS

EdChoice scholarships help independent, nonprofit schools like CJDS by: - Making our school more accessible for more families - Allowing us to offer more tuition assistance - Providing sustainable funding for our educational mission

Your participation in EdChoice strengthens the entire CJDS community.