🎓 How to Use the Texas School Choice Voucher:
A Step-by-Step Guide for Families
Disclosure: The Texas School Choice Voucher Program is still in its early stages, and the information on this website reflects what is currently available. We will update the content regularly as new details emerge.
If your child qualifies for a Texas Education Savings Account (ESA) under the new School Choice Bill, you may be wondering:
“Now what?”
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently use your voucher to support your child’s education—whether you're considering private school, homeschool, tutoring, or other support services.
💰 How Much Can You Receive?
Depending on your educational path, families can receive:
Up to $10,000 per year for students attending private schools
Up to $2,000 per year for students who are homeschooled
These funds are not handed out as cash. Instead, they are placed in a state-managed Education Savings Account (ESA) and can be spent on approved educational expenses.
✅ What Can ESA Funds Be Used For?
Texas ESA funds can cover a wide range of educational needs, not just tuition. Here’s a breakdown:
📚 Education & Instruction
Private school tuition and fees
Online courses or virtual private schools
Dual credit or college courses
Tutoring services or learning centers
Instructional materials (books, learning software, etc.)
🏠 Homeschool Support
Curriculum or textbooks
Online homeschool platforms
Educational co-op memberships
Testing or academic assessments
👩⚕️ Specialized Services
Educational therapies (speech, occupational, behavioral)
Services for students with disabilities
Reading or dyslexia intervention programs
🎒 General Learning Expenses
School uniforms
School supplies
Technology (laptops, learning devices)
Internet service (when required for coursework)
🚗 Transportation
Rides to and from school
Transportation to extracurricular or learning programs
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Use Your Voucher
Here’s how to get started and make the most of your ESA funds.
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
To qualify, your child must typically:
Attend a Texas public school or be entering kindergarten
Be from a qualifying group (e.g., low-income, military, foster care, disability)
Apply and be approved through the Texas ESA program (details will be posted on the Texas Comptroller’s Office website once available)
2. Choose the Right Education Path for Your Child
Ask yourself:
What learning style works best for my child?
Do they need specialized support (dyslexia, IEP services)?
Is a traditional or alternative setting better?
Use your answers to explore the following options:
A. Private School
Great if your child needs smaller class sizes, a faith-based curriculum, or a program focused on specific values or academic tracks.
To Do:
Research accredited schools in your area
Ask about tuition, curriculum, and support services
Make sure they accept ESA funds
✅ Use this site to explore options: Texas Private School Directory
B. Homeschooling
You direct your child’s education at home, using ESA funds for materials, software, tutors, or online platforms.
To Do:
Pick a curriculum (free or paid)
Join local homeschool support groups or co-ops
Keep receipts for all purchases
✅ Start with: Texas Homeschool Coalition
C. Hybrid or Online Learning
Perfect if your child needs a flexible schedule or learns better online. Includes online private schools, dual credit programs, or a mix of public/homeschool.
To Do:
Compare programs like Lone Star Online Academy or Texas Connections Academy
Use funds to cover internet, equipment, and courses
✅ Explore virtual options at: THSC.org
D. Supplemental Services
If your child needs extra help or has special needs, ESA funds can go toward:
Speech therapy
Reading interventions
Tutoring
Special education services
To Do:
Find local providers who accept ESA payments
Document services and track ESA usage
3. Apply and Track Spending Through the ESA Platform
Once the application opens (dates TBD), you’ll:
Apply online
Receive approval
Get access to an ESA platform (like an online spending account)
Browse approved vendors and make purchases directly
The state will publish an approved expense list and vendor directory once the system launches.
4. Keep Records and Stay Updated
Make sure to:
Keep all receipts and invoices
Track your spending in the ESA portal
Stay current on policy updates through trusted sites like Texas Tribune and Raise Your Hand Texas
📌 Real-World Scenarios: How Families Might Use the Voucher
📘 Example 1: Private School + Transportation
The Johnsons use their $10,000 ESA to cover their child’s tuition at a faith-based private school and use the remaining funds for transportation costs.
📘 Example 2: Homeschooling + Educational Therapy
The Ortegas homeschool their 4th grader. They use their $2,000 to buy curriculum, pay for weekly math tutoring, and cover internet bills.
📘 Example 3: Online High School + Dual Credit
The Nguyens enroll their teen in an online high school and use ESA funds to pay for dual credit classes at the local community college.
🤔 What If You Don’t Qualify?
Not every family will receive a voucher. But that doesn’t mean your options are limited.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Texas’ new voucher program is about more than just private school—it’s about giving families flexibility to design an education that fits their child. Whether you choose private school, homeschool, therapy services, or dual credit classes, ESA funds can help lighten the financial load and open new doors.
TexEd is here to walk with you every step of the way.
📬 Have questions? Explore the Texas Comptroller’s ESA page for updates as the program rolls out.
