School Choice
New Opportunities for Education in Texas
Exciting opportunities are on the horizon for families looking to take control of their children’s education in Texas. When the 89th session of the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin in 2025, they will once again take up the task of providing school choice for Texas families.
How will it work?
School choice will provide families with Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) that are intended to help families access the school of their choice. A yet-to-be-decided amount of money will be provided for each child in order to make private education more accessible for families across the state. This groundbreaking initiative allows you to select a participating private school that fits your child’s unique needs, providing a flexible and supportive path to educational success.
Who will be eligible?
Many Texas families could benefit from this program, making it a significant opportunity for families who wish to have more choices for their children’s education. We expect the bill to give priority to low-income and special needs families, ensuring that those who need these resources most will have access. With this funding, you will have the power to choose the school environment that best supports your child’s learning style, strengths, and interests, enabling them to truly thrive both academically and personally.
Will all private schools participate?
Private schools also have choice. Schools can choose whether or not to accept ESA funds. Some schools may wish to accommodate families using ESA by providing scholarships to cover any difference between the ESA amount and full tuition. This means more options and fewer barriers to giving your child the educational experience they deserve. The choice is yours—take advantage of this upcoming opportunity to empower your child’s educational journey and discover a school that nurtures their potential.
What will the ESA program include?
Proponents of the ESA program are pushing for the following key points to be included in the potential bill:
- $8,000-$10,000 offered per child—about 50,000-60,000 kids will be funded across the state.
- Only accredited private schools may participate; no unaccredited schools are allowed to participate.
- Must have religious liberty protections and private school autonomy language.
- Student Priorities: (1) low-income children; (2) special needs children; (3) other students if money remains.
Support School Choice
Want to get involved? Contact your local state representative now to let them know you support parental choice in Texas.
Resources
For more information about school/parental choice in Texas, please consult these resources:
School/Parental Choice Myths and Facts (PDF)
Private Schools Are Ready for Parental Choice (PDF)
Private Schools Accreditation Process (PDF)
Texas Tribune Parental Choice Panel Discussion (February 16, 2023)
NBC Dallas-Fort Worth Article: Report Previews Battle Over Public Money to Private & Home Schools
