For John and Cecily Yearby, finding the right school for their children meant trying more than one path. After experiences with public school and virtual learning, the Phenix City couple says they found the environment they had been searching for at The Rock Academy, and that Alabama’s CHOOSE Act education savings account program helped make that choice possible.

On Friday, Gov. Kay Ivey introduced the Yearbys as the latest family featured in her ongoing series highlighting Alabama families who have benefited from the CHOOSE Act. Three of the couple’s children attended The Rock Academy during the 2025-26 school year through the program, and the family has renewed its funding for the 2026-27 school year.

“For a family who has tried several educational avenues for their children, the Yearbys, with support from the CHOOSE Act, now have the opportunity to select a learning environment where each of their children can succeed,” Ivey said. “The Yearby family is one of many that has seen a remarkable difference in their children. It is wonderful to hear that they are thriving in an environment that can support their individual needs.”

John and Cecily Yearby have five children: Johnna, 23; Josiah, 15; Jaci, 13; Jeremiah, 11; and a 19-month-old son. Their three school-age children supported through the CHOOSE Act – Josiah, Jaci and Jeremiah – attend The Rock Academy. After trying public school and a virtual learning program, the family said they found the school to be the best fit academically and socially while also reflecting the Christian values they teach at home. John Yearby serves as chaplain for Turner Fence, LLC in Opelika, while Cecily works in real estate.

According to the governor’s office, Josiah participates in The Rock Academy’s special needs program and is making more progress every day. Jeremiah has become so enthusiastic about school that he is the first one awake on school mornings, while Jaci thanked Gov. Ivey for providing her and her siblings with the chance to attend a school they love.

Cecily Yearby encouraged other parents to consider applying for the CHOOSE Act if they are looking for a different educational option for their children.

“There is nothing to lose from trying something different, so why not apply? If you are looking for another option, the CHOOSE Act provides more opportunities that many families do not know about. Learning environments make a big difference, and I have seen that my children are progressing more now than they ever have.”

She said the family remains grateful for the opportunity.

“We are just thankful. The environment they create at the school helps the kids want to be there and learn. The CHOOSE Act program has been a blessing to our family, and I believe that it can be a blessing for so many others.”

Christy Marchetti, head of school at The Rock Academy, said the CHOOSE Act has expanded educational opportunities for many Alabama families.

“The Rock Academy is grateful to Governor Kay Ivey for her leadership in passing the CHOOSE Act and expanding educational opportunities for Alabama families,” Marchetti said.

“Our school is not a typical private school, as 81% of our students receive financial support and 23% have identified learning differences. This legislation has allowed families who never thought they could afford private education to choose a learning environment that better meets their child’s needs. Educational opportunity should not be limited by income, ZIP code or a student’s learning challenges. We have seen firsthand how the CHOOSE Act has given families hope, options and access to individualized support. We sincerely thank Governor Ivey and the Alabama Legislature for helping more children find a school where they can thrive.”

More than 34,000 students received approval for CHOOSE Act funding for the 2026-27 school year, representing more than $174 million in education savings accounts. Beginning with the 2027-28 school year, the program will be open to all Alabama families regardless of household income.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].