Introduction to School Vouchers in Texas
Private school vouchers are now a reality in Texas, offering families the chance to receive financial assistance to send their children to private schools. This program is also known as school choice and aims to prioritize students with disabilities and low-income families. The $1 billion investment is expected to help around 92,000 families over the course of two years.
How the Program Works
Under the new program, eligible families will receive about $10,500 per year per child, while families of special needs students can receive up to $30,000. According to Robert Enlow, the president and CEO of EdChoice, a national nonprofit advocating for school choice, this amount is sufficient to make sure that families can access private schools across the state.
Benefits and Expectations
Enlow believes that the demand for this program will be high, and the state legislature will continue to approve funding for it in the future. He expects that the program will put more pressure on the legislature and communities to provide more options for families. The program is set to launch in the 2026 to 2027 school year, and the Texas Comptroller must still set up an application process for families interested in enrolling their children.
Concerns and Criticisms
However, not everyone is optimistic about the program. Houston ISD parents like Jessica Campos are skeptical, citing concerns that private schools may not accept children with learning disabilities. Campos also worries that the quality of education in public schools will decrease as a result of the program. Dee Dee Halpin, one of the owners of Houston School Options, shares similar concerns, stating that the program may draw funds out of public schools, leaving them with fewer resources to teach more challenging students.
Program Details and Eligibility
Any Texas school-age child is eligible for the program, including those already in private schools. However, the program prioritizes students leaving public schools over those already in private schools. If demand for the program exceeds the available funding, there is a prioritization schedule in place. The average private school tuition cost per year is around $27,000, which may not be fully covered by the program.
Conclusion
The introduction of private school vouchers in Texas is a significant development in the state’s education landscape. While the program aims to provide more options for families, concerns about its potential impact on public schools and the eligibility of students with disabilities remain. As the program launches in the 2026 to 2027 school year, it will be essential to monitor its effectiveness and address the concerns of stakeholders to ensure that all students in Texas have access to quality education.
