San Antonio, Texas, November 23, 2025
The Texas Comptroller’s Office has chosen Odyssey to oversee the $1 billion Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), expanding educational options for Texas families. The program aims to provide public funds for private school tuition, homeschooling, and related expenses, with the rollout expected in early 2026. Odyssey, with a contract valued at $26 million for two years, will handle the application process and manage payments to educational providers, amidst scrutiny over its political ties and past controversies.
San Antonio, Texas
Odyssey to Manage Texas’ $1 Billion Private School Voucher Program
Austin, Texas – In a pivotal move for educational choice, the Texas Comptroller’s Office has selected the New York-based tech company Odyssey to administer the state’s $1 billion private school voucher program, officially dubbed the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA). This development represents a significant step toward expanding educational opportunities for families across Texas by providing public funds intended for private school tuition, homeschooling, and other educational-related expenses.
Implementing TEFA is expected to offer families greater flexibility in meeting their children’s educational needs. The program is anticipated to roll out in early 2026, with the application window for vouchers opening from February 4 to March 20, 2026. Final decisions on voucher awards are scheduled for May 1, with funds accessible via digital wallets by July 1, 2026. This timeline allows for careful planning and preparation by families eager to utilize these educational resources.
Understanding Odyssey’s Role
Under its new two-year contract valued at $26 million, Odyssey will oversee a range of critical functions within the TEFA program. This includes managing the application process, verifying participant eligibility, issuing payments to approved educational providers, and addressing concerns or complaints from families utilizing the program. The contract can potentially be extended for an additional two years, depending on the program’s future funding needs and effectiveness.
Political Connections and Background
Odyssey’s selection has drawn attention due to its connections to influential political figures within Texas. The company has employed lobbyist Luis Saenz, former chief of staff to Governor Greg Abbott, and Daniel Warner, who previously served as a policy adviser to former Speaker Dade Phelan. Furthermore, Odyssey has aligned with the Austin firm Vianovo for its public relations efforts, which includes seasoned political operatives from Abbott’s administration. Such ties have led to discussions about the impact of political connections on the awarding of state contracts.
Previous Experience and Controversies
Odyssey is not new to this type of work; the company has managed similar educational programs in states such as Iowa, Georgia, Louisiana, and Wyoming. For instance, in Iowa, Odyssey oversees a substantial $218 million program catering to around 30,000 enrolled students. However, the company has faced scrutiny in the past, particularly in Idaho, where an audit revealed $180,000 in improper purchases tied to a program it administered. After this incident, the company reimbursed the state for the unauthorized transactions, but the program was ultimately repealed, placing a spotlight on the accountability measures necessary for such initiatives.
Implications for Texas Families
As the implementation of TEFA approaches, many Texas families are looking forward to exploring this new educational landscape. By enabling greater access to diverse educational options, the program holds the promise of fostering competition and innovation within the education sector. Additionally, it encourages parents and guardians to take an active role in their children’s learning pathways, which can be critical in promoting long-term educational success.
Conclusion
The decision to appoint Odyssey as the manager of Texas’ private school voucher program heralds a significant shift in the state’s education policy. As stakeholders prepare for the roll-out of TEFA, ongoing scrutiny and engagement will be vital to navigate the complexities of educational funding and choice. Encouraging public discourse on this topic can empower families and communities to advocate for their educational rights and contribute to a more robust dialogue about the future of education in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program?
The TEFA program is a $1 billion initiative that provides families with public funds to cover private school tuition, homeschooling, and other educational expenses.
When will families be able to apply for the TEFA program?
Families can apply for vouchers from February 4 to March 20, 2026. Voucher award decisions will be finalized by May 1, and funds will become accessible in digital wallets starting July 1, 2026.
What is Odyssey’s role in the TEFA program?
Odyssey will manage the application process, verify eligibility, issue payments to approved providers, and handle complaints from participating families. The company has been awarded a two-year contract worth $26 million, with an option for two additional years.
Who are some of the individuals associated with Odyssey’s contract?
Odyssey has engaged several individuals with ties to Governor Greg Abbott’s administration, including lobbyist Luis Saenz, former chief of staff to Abbott, and Daniel Warner, former policy adviser to ex-Speaker Dade Phelan. Additionally, Odyssey has partnered with the Austin firm Vianovo for public relations, which includes former Abbott communications director John Wittman and ex-deputy chief of staff Matthew Hirsch.
Has Odyssey faced any controversies in other states?
Yes, Odyssey has faced scrutiny in other states. In Idaho, an audit identified $180,000 in improper purchases within a program it managed, leading to the company reimbursing the state for unauthorized transactions. The program was later repealed.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) |
| Contractor | Odyssey |
| Contract Value | $26 million (2 years, with renewal option) |
| Application Period | February 4 to March 20, 2026 |
| Award Decision Date | May 1, 2026 |
| Access to Funds | Starting July 1, 2026 via digital wallets |
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