600 private schools apply for new Texas school choice program in 10 days

Texas has launched its first Education Savings Account program, known as the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA). Backed by Gov. Greg Abbott, the initiative aims to give families more control over their children’s education by offering financial support for private schooling, homeschooling, and other learning expenses. The program has already seen strong interest, with hundreds of schools and providers signing up within days of opening applications.

The Texas Comptroller’s Office began rolling out TEFA in October 2023. Odyssey Impact, a charitable education assistance organisation, was chosen to manage the program, including an online portal for families to access information and submit applications. A new website, EducationFreedom.Texas.Gov, now provides tools like a school finder and a 'Parent Prep Checklist' to help guide applicants.

Under TEFA, around 100,000 students will receive grants of $10,000 for the 2026-27 school year. Those attending private schools will get $10,474—85% of the average public school funding per student. Special needs students could qualify for up to $30,000, depending on their requirements, while homeschooled students will receive $2,000. Parent applications will open from February 4 to March 17, 2026, with priority given to low-income families. The program’s $1 billion budget makes it the largest first-year school choice initiative in the US. Within the first 10 days of educator applications, over 600 private schools and 200 education service providers registered to take part.

TEFA marks a major shift in Texas education policy, offering families new financial options for schooling. With a billion-dollar budget and broad participation from private schools, the program is set to reshape how students access learning opportunities across the state. Applications for the 2026-27 school year will begin early next year.