Texas, January 10, 2026

Texas has approved over 700 schools to participate in the new Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program for the upcoming school year. The program, which allocates $1 billion, aims to provide parents with vouchers for private school tuition and other educational expenses. Regions such as Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth have the most participants. The initiative, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott, seeks to empower parents in their educational choices while sparking debate about the impact on public schools.

Over 700 Schools Approved for Texas’ New School Voucher Program

Over 700 schools have been approved to participate in Texas’ new school voucher program, the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), for the 2026-27 school year.

Program Overview

The TEFA program, established by the Texas Legislature, allocates $1 billion over the next two years to provide parents with vouchers for private school tuition or other educational expenses.

Regional Participation

Participation varies across the state. The Houston area leads with approximately 233 private schools approved, accounting for about 30% of the total participants. The Dallas-Fort Worth region follows with 195 schools, San Antonio has 94, and Austin has 70. Other areas include:

• South Texas (Corpus Christi and Laredo): 38 schools
• Rio Grande Valley: 35 schools
• East Texas: 37 schools
• Central Texas: 25 schools
• West Texas: 22 schools
• Panhandle: 9 schools
• North Texas: 6 schools

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the program, schools must be accredited by the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission or another state-recognized accreditor, have been operating for at least two years, and administer a nationally norm-referenced assessment.

Application Process

Parents can begin applying for the TEFA program on February 4, 2026. Notifications of funding decisions will be sent in April, with funds becoming available on July 1.

Background

Governor Greg Abbott signed the school voucher law in May 2025, making Texas the 16th state to allow public funds for private education. The program aims to empower parents to choose the best educational setting for their children.

Potential Impact

The program is expected to assist approximately 92,000 families over a two-year period, with the possibility of expansion in future years.

Criticism and Support

While supporters argue that the program offers parents more educational choices, opponents express concerns about potential impacts on public schools and the equitable distribution of resources.

Conclusion

The Texas Education Freedom Accounts program represents a significant change in the state’s educational landscape, with over 700 schools prepared to participate. This initiative not only highlights the importance of educational choices for parents in Texas but also reflects an opportunity for entrepreneurial growth in the education sector. As parents explore these options, it remains essential for all stakeholders to engage in thoughtful dialogue about the potential impacts of this program on public and private education systems in San Antonio and beyond.

FAQs

What is the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program?

The TEFA program is a new school voucher initiative in Texas, allocating $1 billion over two years to provide parents with vouchers for private school tuition or other educational expenses.

How many schools are participating in the TEFA program?

Over 700 schools have been approved to participate in the TEFA program for the 2026-27 school year.

When can parents apply for the TEFA program?

Parents can begin applying for the TEFA program on February 4, 2026.

What are the eligibility criteria for schools to participate in the TEFA program?

Schools must be accredited by the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission or another state-recognized accreditor, have been operating for at least two years, and administer a nationally norm-referenced assessment.

What is the expected impact of the TEFA program?

The program is expected to assist approximately 92,000 families over a two-year period, with the possibility of expansion in future years.

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