Nearly 96,000 Texas students have now received award notices through the state’s new school voucher program, according to the Texas Comptroller’s Office.
The program, officially known as the Texas Education Freedom Account program, allows families to use state funds toward private school tuition, homeschooling expenses, tutoring, and other approved educational services. The rollout marks one of the largest school choice initiatives in the country.
State officials say more than 274,000 applications were submitted statewide, far exceeding the number of available awards during the program’s first year.
Under the program, eligible families can receive about $10,500 per student for private school expenses, while students with disabilities may qualify for up to $30,000. Homeschool students can receive smaller allotments for approved educational costs.
The state says priority was given to students with disabilities and lower-income families during the initial rounds of selections. Officials also note that receiving an award notice does not guarantee admission into a participating private school. Families must still complete enrollment requirements with schools directly.
Supporters of the voucher program, including Governor Greg Abbott, have argued the initiative gives parents greater flexibility in choosing the educational environment they believe works best for their children.
Critics, including many public education advocates and school districts, continue to raise concerns about the long-term impact on public school funding and resources. Some opponents argue the program could divert taxpayer money away from traditional public schools already facing budget pressures.
The voucher program was approved by the Texas Legislature last year after years of political debate over school choice policies in the state.
