Texas Launches $1 Billion School Voucher Program for Families

Texas has formally adopted new regulations that allocate $1 billion for families and students to cover various educational expenses. The announcement, made on November 25, 2023, by Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock, detailed the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 2. This legislation, passed earlier in the year, establishes the Texas Education Freedom Accounts program, which enables eligible Texans to utilize funds for private school tuition, educational therapies, and other educational resources.

The finalized rules, filed with the Texas Secretary of State, will take effect in 20 days. Senate Bill 2 introduces universal Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), allowing families to access funding for educational costs. Advocates of the bill argue it promotes “school choice,” providing parents the freedom to select the best educational environment for their children.

Controversy Surrounding the Voucher Program

The introduction of this program has sparked significant debate among Texas lawmakers. Following the bill’s passage, the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus publicly opposed the initiative, describing it as a “deeply flawed voucher scheme.” They contend that it diverts crucial taxpayer funding from public schools, redirecting it to private educational institutions.

The ESA program is designed to provide each participating student with at least $2,000 annually for educational expenses. Certain students may qualify for additional support, with those attending accredited private schools or “at-risk” pre-kindergarten students potentially receiving more than $10,000 per year. Students with disabilities may be eligible for up to $30,000 annually. The program aims to serve up to 100,000 students, prioritizing applications from low-income families and those with disabilities if demand exceeds the available spots.

According to the Texas Comptroller’s office, a family’s adjusted gross income will be a factor in determining eligibility for the program. Importantly, all students can apply, regardless of their current enrollment in public or private schools or if they are homeschooled. Although the initial funding stands at $1 billion, reports indicate that it could expand to $4.5 billion annually by 2030.

Statements from Officials

Kelly Hancock emphasized the program’s intent to empower Texas families, stating, “These administrative rules, like the program itself, put Texas parents in the driver’s seat.” She reiterated the mission to implement SB 2 in a responsible and transparent manner, focusing on students’ educational success.

Senator Paul Bettencourt, a co-author of SB 2, expressed his belief in the potential of school choice to enhance the education system in Texas. He remarked, “An old saying is iron sharpens iron, so shall school choice sharpen the entire Texas education system.” Bettencourt highlighted that the program not only offers choices but also includes anti-fraud measures aimed at fostering competition.

Conversely, the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus has remained firm in its opposition. They argue that the bill undermines public education and jeopardizes the quality of schooling for the majority of Texas children. Their statement from earlier in the year asserted, “Let’s be clear: S.B. 2 is not about ‘school choice.’ It’s about public subsidization of private schools’ choice.”

As Texas moves forward with this initiative, the implications for public education funding and the broader educational landscape will continue to be scrutinized. The outcome of this program may set a significant precedent for education policy in the state and potentially influence similar movements across the country.