Ivey Highlights Birmingham Family Using CHOOSE Act

Gov. Kay Ivey is highlighting a Birmingham family that says Alabama’s CHOOSE Act has helped provide its children with an educational environment better suited to their individual needs.

Crystal French-Moore and Johnnie Moore have two sons, 14-year-old Javontae and 13-year-old Jacobe. Both attend The Miracle Academy, a private school in Birmingham, with support from education savings accounts provided through the CHOOSE Act.

The brothers participated in the program last school year and are again using the ESAs for the 2026-27 school year.

“The Moores are a prime example of parents dedicated to securing the best life possible for their children,” Ivey said. “They saw a change that needed to happen for their boys and sought to make that change a reality.”

French-Moore said her oldest son had experienced bullying and depression in his previous educational environment. She said both children are now thriving at their new school.

The Miracle Academy was founded in 2020 by Dr. Gregory Mullen in response to the educational needs of his daughter, Miracle, who has special needs. The private Christian school serves special needs students in the Birmingham area and focuses on individual learning styles.

Mullen said the CHOOSE Act has helped remove financial barriers for parents who otherwise might not be able to choose where their children attend school.

The CHOOSE Act’s education savings accounts can be used for eligible educational expenses, including curriculum, textbooks, workbooks, educational software, computers, school supplies, tutoring and certain school fees.

French-Moore encouraged other Alabama families interested in the program to apply even if they are uncertain whether they will qualify.

“Do whatever you can to make a better future for your kids,” she said. “Never give up.”

According to Ivey’s office, the Moore family is among tens of thousands of Alabama families receiving support through the CHOOSE Act.