🎓 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.

🧭 Read: “Didn’t Get a Voucher? Here Are Your Options.”

🧠 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.

📌 School Choice in Texas: The Big Picture

Texas families have access to a range of education options—including:

• Traditional public schools

• Public charter schools

• Magnet schools

• Private schools

• Homeschooling

• Online public schools

• Microlearning communities

Thanks to school choice policies, many families can enroll their child in a school outside their assigned district, apply to tuition-free public charter or magnet schools, or receive support for homeschooling and online learning.

📊 A Snapshot of Texas Education (2023–2024)

According to the Texas Education Agency and other state organizations:

• 5.5 million students were enrolled in traditional public schools

• 422,930 students attended public charter schools

• Approximately 290,000 students attended private schools

• Public school enrollment grew 7.4% over the past 10 years

So while most Texas families still use public schools, more and more are exploring other options to find the best educational fit for their kids.

🔎 A Closer Look at Your Options

1. 🏫 Traditional Public Schools (ISDs)

Texas public schools are free and open to all students. Each neighborhood is assigned a school, but thanks to open enrollment, many districts allow families to request transfers to schools outside their assigned zones—if space allows.

✅ Real examples:

• STEM Academies in Dallas ISD

• Dual Language Programs in Austin ISD

• Career and Technical Education programs preparing students for high-demand jobs

2. 🏫 Public Charter Schools

Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently of traditional school districts. They often have a unique mission or curriculum—and may focus on college readiness, STEM, arts, or social-emotional learning.

✅ Real examples:

• Harmony Public Schools – project-based STEM learning

• IDEA Public Schools – college-prep model

• KIPP Texas – focus on character development and academic rigor

• Great Hearts Texas – classical education model

👉 Search for charter schools here: Texas Charter School Directory (select “Charter” under “District Type”)

3. 🎭 Magnet Schools

Magnet schools are free public schools that specialize in a certain subject or theme, such as science, engineering, medical studies, or the arts. Some are affiliated with universities and offer college-level experiences to high schoolers.

✅ Real examples:

• Baylor College of Medicine Academy in Houston

• Arts magnet programs in Dallas ISD

• STEM magnet schools across the state

👉 Learn more at: MySchoolChoice.com

4. 🏡 Homeschooling

Homeschooling gives parents full control over their child’s education. You pick the curriculum, design the schedule, and guide the learning.

It’s legal in Texas and doesn’t require state approval, but you must teach specific subjects like reading, math, and spelling.

✅ Tools to get started:

• Discovery K12 – free homeschool curriculum

• Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) – legal support, curriculum options, and co-op directories

5. 💻 Online Public Schools

Online public schools are free and follow state curriculum standards—but everything is done virtually. Teachers, assignments, and grading are provided by the school, not the parent.

This is a great option for students who need flexibility or learn better from home, but still want licensed educators and structured lessons.

✅ Examples:

• Lone Star Online Academy at Roscoe

• Texas Connections Academy

• Texas Tech K-12

👉 You can explore more options at THSC.org

6. 🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 Microlearning Communities

Microlearning is a newer, creative way to educate. It usually involves small pods of students learning together, sometimes in homes, libraries, or co-working spaces, with support from a parent or teacher.

Some families use it part-time—pairing it with public school, homeschool, or online programs.

👉 Learn more about microlearning at: MySchoolChoice.com (search “microlearning”)

🏫 Other School Types to Know

While this guide focused on the most common school models, there are others worth knowing:

• Private Schools – Funded by tuition or donations; can offer religious instruction, small classes, or specialized programs.

• University-Model Schools – Hybrid of home and classroom learning, usually faith-based or college-prep.

• Montessori & Waldorf Schools – Focus on hands-on, developmental learning.

• Alternative Schools – Serve students needing behavioral or emotional support or a non-traditional approach.

👉 Curious about private or alternative schools in your area? Use the TEPSAC School Finder

💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be an expert to make an informed decision.
You just need honest, accessible information—and that’s what we’re here for.

⚖️ The Debate: Pros and Cons of School Choice

School choice is a hot topic in Texas right now, but if you're like many people, you may not fully understand what it means or how it might affect your family or community. This article breaks down the basic arguments for and against school choice, so you can feel more informed—whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just someone who cares about your neighborhood schools.

🟢 What Supporters Say

People who support school choice believe parents should have more control over where their kids go to school—not just the public school assigned to their zip code.

Here’s what they argue:

• More Options for Families: Instead of being limited to your neighborhood public school, you could use state funds (around $10,000 per child) to help pay for a private school, homeschool, or online program.

• Access to Better-Fit Schools: Some families want schools with smaller class sizes, different teaching styles, or specialized programs (like STEM, arts, or religious education) that public schools may not offer.

• Pressure on Public Schools to Improve: Supporters say if public schools know students can leave, they'll work harder to meet families' needs in order to keep them enrolled.

🔴 What Critics Say

Others are deeply concerned that this bill could make things worse for public schools—and for the students and families who rely on them.

Here’s what they’re worried about:

• Less Money for Public Schools: In Texas, schools get money from the state based on how many students attend. So if kids leave to attend private schools, their funding leaves with them. This can lead to teacher layoffs, bigger class sizes, and cuts to programs—especially in schools that are already underfunded.

• Private Schools Can Say No: Unlike public schools, private schools don't have to accept every student. They can turn students away based on test scores, disabilities, behavior, or other factors. That means some families may get the funding but still be left out.

• Hidden Costs Still Add Up: The $10,000 may not cover everything. Private schools often charge more in tuition, and families may still have to pay for things like transportation, uniforms, enrollment fees, and school supplies. Low-income families might still not be able to afford to leave public school.

• Lack of Oversight: Public schools follow strict rules and are held accountable by the state. Some critics worry that private and homeschool programs won’t be held to the same standards, and students might not get the education they deserve.

🔍 What This Means for Your Community

This debate isn’t just about personal choice—it affects everyone in the community, even if you don’t have school-aged kids.

Here’s how:

• Public Schools Lose Resources: When students leave, schools lose money. Fewer students means fewer dollars, which means fewer teachers, fewer counselors, and fewer programs like music, sports, or special education.

• Neighborhood Impact: Public schools are more than just classrooms—they're community hubs. If they shrink or close, that affects local jobs, property values, and neighborhood stability.

• Taxpayer Dollars Shift: The money that would’ve gone to support your local public school could now be spent on private and religious schools, even though these schools don’t follow the same rules as public ones.

💬 Why Staying Informed Matters

Whether you're for or against school choice, it’s important to understand how this bill works and how it might affect your child, your neighborhood, and your tax dollars.

You don’t have to be an expert in policy to care about what’s happening.

Start by asking questions. Learn how school funding works. Talk to your neighbors. Reach out to your school board or local representatives. And most importantly—use your voice. The future of education in Texas is being shaped right now.

🏛️ San Antonio: Enhancing Your Child’s Education through Enrichment Programming

San Antonio 

City of San Antonio Extended Day Program

In partnership with several districts in the area, the City of San Antonio, has established the Extended Day Program. This program was created in conjunction with the City of San Antonio’s After School Challenge. Currently, the program operates through schools in the districts in the program, and provides them services through their neighborhood YMCA location. For example, in San Antonio ISD (SAISD), approximately 50 schools and serves over 4,000 students. Students who complete the application will receive their services at the YMCA locations that serve schools in their areas. Families must apply directly to the YMCA that services their child’s school. Additional districts that are in the program include Edgewood, Harlandale, South San, and Southwest. 

https://ymcasatx.org/saisd

Youth Enrichment Activities! (YEA!)

Established in 2017, Youth Enrichment Activities (YEA!) mission is to make learning opportunities more fun and engaging for youth, and the young at heart. YEA provided interactive experiences for attendees to enhance their knowledge, obtain new skills, and maintain social wellbeing while being an active participant. YEA offers summer camps, programs designated for teens, and clubs dedicated to baking, engineering, and nature lovers. These programs are at a cost to the student’s family. 

https://www.youthenrichmentactivities.com/ 

Fun 4 Alamo Kids

Fun 4 Alamo Kids provide families with information on programs, events and activities for kids in the San Antonio area. Fun 4 Alamo Kids began as a site for families with kids that are homeschooled to find activities to enrich their child’s education. Today, anyone can find links to youth sports programs, after school and summer camps, as well as events hosted by businesses and family-oriented organizations in the area. 

https://fun4alamokids.com/ 

Final Tip: Want Even More Options?

Try the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) School Finder to discover alternative and accredited schools across the state.

🏛️ Houston: Enhancing Your Child’s Education through Enrichment Programming

While a centralized database for enrichment programs in Houston has yet to have been built, several organizations in the area offer their own enrichment programs; ranging from academics, athletics, and interests across various disciplines. 

Houston Parks and Recreation

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department provides local youth ages 4-18 opportunities to engage in various enrichment programs within and across the city. These activities include mentoring opportunities for teens, athletic teams, academic support, and food services. Families would need to search through the Parks and Recreation database to learn how they can apply. 

https://www.houstontx.gov/parks/youthsports-recreation.html 

United Ways Bright Beginnings

In partnership with United Way of Greater Houston and ExxonMobil, United Ways Bright Beginnings helps children from lower-income families achieve social, emotional, and cognitive skills with their innovative early educational program. Bright Beginnings has helped over 15,000 children in the area; many of whom have gone on to earn high scores on standardized state testing, maintain high attendance rates, and cause less disciplinary problems while in school. Bright Beginnings is present in both community based and home based centers. 

https://unitedwayhouston.org/what-we-do/youth-success/united-way-bright-beginnings/ 

Houston YMCA

The Houston YMCA provides and after school and summer enrichment program for local youths in the area. The Y program provides time for students to engage in enrichment and exploration activities, time to study and complete school assignments, opportunities to engage in active play, as well as community time to receive a snack and social/emotional lessons. The Y program is located in schools within the area, and is a paid program. Families can find additional information on the program’s website. 

https://ymcahouston.org/programs/childcare-and-camps/after-school 

Final Tip: Want Even More Options?

Try the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) School Finder to discover alternative and accredited schools across the state.

🏛️ Austin: Enhancing Your Child’s Education through Enrichment Programming

Austin Parks and Recreation

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department is one of organizations in the area that offers its own after school enrichment program in various locations across the city. Their program offers opportunities to receive assistance with homework assignments, personal development, and physical activities. 

https://www.austintexas.gov/department/after-school-programs 

Austin YMCA Extend-A-Care

Austin’s YMCA branches provide afterschool and summer programs for families, as well as early learning programs. 

https://www.austinymca.org/locations/extend-a-care/ 

Final Tip: Want Even More Options?

Try the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) School Finder to discover alternative and accredited schools across the state.

🏛️ Dallas: Enhancing Your Child’s Education through Enrichment Programming

It has been stated that education can extend beyond the walls of a classroom or school building. Such has been the reasoning and support for after-school, or beyond school enrichment programs. When one thinks of after school programming, many tend to imagine athletic teams, dance companies, or tutoring programs. Today however, after school enrichment programs have developed to expose school aged youth to a variety of disciplines and interests. However, they’re not always easy to find if you don’t know where to look. Take a look at this article to see what databases and programs exist in your area to help you find the right programs for your child.

Dallas Afterschool

Built on a mission to increase access to high quality programs that exist beyond the school grounds, Dallas Afterschool has partnered with several schools and local businesses and organizations to make that mission a reality. Using the Resource tab, users can input their zip code (or the zip code of their child’s school), their child’s interests, and grade level to find the right program fit for them. Examples of the programs and groups include Frontiers of Flight, The Boys and Girls Club of Metropolitan Dallas. 

https://dallasafterschool.org 

Dallas ISD Extended Learning Opportunities

Families with students that attend Dallas ISD schools can take part in the district’s Extended Learning Opportunities Program. Extended Learning Opportunities provide extra-cuurrciular, co-curricular, after school, and summer enrichment programs for students in grades K4 through 8th grade. These programs provide students opportunities to engage in accelerated learning programs, lessons in social and emotional wellbeing and building relationships with peers. Students in the extended learning program also receive meals, transportation, and is at no cost to their families. 

https://www.dallasisd.org/departments/extended-learning-opportunities/department-home 

Dallas Park and Recreation

The Dallas Park and Recreation Department After School Program (ASP) provides after school and out-of-school programs for students aged 6 through 12. These programs provide attendees opportunities to engage in academic enrichment, physical activities, and attaining life skills. ASP can be found at department recreation centers and DISD partnered schools. Snacks are provided, as well as transportation at selected sites. Families can find programs and register their students through the department’s website. 

https://www.dallasparks.org/177/2850/Out-of-School-Time-Programs 

Final Tip: Want Even More Options?

Try the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) School Finder to discover alternative and accredited schools across the state.

🤷What If You Don’t Get a Voucher?

Free and Low-Cost School Options for Texas Families

Let’s be honest—not every family will get a voucher. There are limited spots, unclear rules, and high demand.

But even without a voucher, you still have options. Below is a list of free or low-cost school alternatives to help you find the best learning environment for your child—based on your needs, values, and goals.

🏫 1. Public Charter Schools

Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently from traditional school districts. That means they may have different teaching styles, academic focuses, or school models—but they’re still open to the public.

They’re often founded by educators, parents, or community groups.
Every charter school has its own mission—some may focus on college prep, dual language learning, or career and technical education.

👉 Explore Texas charter schools here: Texas Charter School Directory (select “Charter” under “District Type”)

🎭 2. Magnet Schools

Magnet schools are free public schools that focus on a specific theme or subject—like medical science, engineering, the arts, or STEM. Some are affiliated with colleges and universities (like Baylor College of Medicine), and many offer a more focused learning experience based on your child’s interests.

These schools usually require an application and may have academic or interest-based criteria.

👉 Learn more and find magnet schools at: MySchoolChoice.com

🏡 3. Homeschooling

Homeschooling means that you, the parent, are in charge of your child’s education. You create the schedule, pick the curriculum, and guide the learning.

There are free homeschool curriculums available, like Discovery K12, and a growing number of support groups and co-ops across Texas.

✳️ Good to Know: In Texas, homeschooling is legal and doesn’t require state approval—but you must follow a few guidelines.

👉 Find everything you need to get started at: Texas Home School Coalition (THSC)

💻 4. Online Public Schools

Online public schools are free and run by the state, just like regular public schools—except everything is done virtually. These schools are not the same as homeschooling because the school provides the teachers, curriculum, and grading.

This is a great option if your child needs a flexible schedule or prefers online learning, but you still want support from licensed teachers.

Popular options include:

• Lone Star Online Academy at Roscoe (LSOA)

• Texas Connections Academy

• Texas Tech K-12 Public School Program

👉 You can also explore more virtual school options on THSC.org

🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 5. Microlearning Communities

Microlearning is a newer, creative way to educate. It involves small groups of students learning together with adult supervision—often in flexible spaces like homes, libraries, or community centers.

Some families use microlearning as a hybrid approach:
→ Their child attends public school part-time and joins a homeschool-style pod for the rest of the week.

It can look very different depending on your community. What matters is that it’s personalized, social, and community-driven.

👉 Learn more about microlearning at: MySchoolChoice.com (search “microlearning”)

💡 Final Thoughts

Even if a voucher isn’t in the cards, you still have the power to choose.
Texas offers more school options than most families realize—and we’re here to help you explore every one of them.

Introduction to School Choice

📘 What It Is, What It Covers, and Why It Matters to You

Choosing a school for your child can feel overwhelming—especially when policies keep changing and information feels out of reach. The Texas School Choice Bill (also known as Senate Bill 2) introduced a new way for families to access educational resources outside of traditional public schools, and it’s already reshaping how Texans think about education.

But here’s the truth: school choice isn’t just about private schools. It’s about understanding all the options available to your family, what you qualify for, and how to use support programs—like Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)—to help your child thrive.

Let’s break it down.

🧾 What Is the Texas School Choice Bill?

The Texas School Choice Bill created a new program called the Education Savings Account (ESA). This program gives eligible families public funds to use toward approved educational expenses—not just private school tuition.

If your child qualifies, you could receive:

• Up to $10,000 per year for private school students

• Up to $2,000 per year for homeschoolers

What Can You Use ESA Funds For?

This money can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses, including:

• Private school tuition & fees

• Homeschooling curriculum and materials

• Dual credit college courses

• Online educational programs

• Educational therapies (speech, reading, behavioral, etc.)

• Textbooks, school uniforms, laptops

• Tutoring or academic support services

• Transportation to and from school

The goal? To give families more freedom and flexibility to shape an education plan that fits their child's needs—not just their zip code.

🧑‍💻 Who Qualifies for ESA Funds?

Eligibility for the ESA program is still being finalized, but here’s what we know so far:

You may qualify if:

• Your child is currently enrolled in a Texas public school, or is entering kindergarten

• Your household income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty level

• You’re part of a priority group, such as:

  • Students with disabilities

  • Children in foster care

  • Students from military families

  • Students attending Title I (low-income) schools

  • Students experiencing homelessness

ℹ️ Important Note: Final details may change. Always check with the Texas Education Agency or the Comptroller’s Office for up-to-date info.

🧭 Your Path Forward: Based on Your Situation

We believe every family deserves a clear path to great education. Depending on your situation, here’s what school choice could look like:

✅ If You Qualify for an ESA

You can use your funds to explore:

• Private schools that fit your child’s learning style or values

• Homeschooling with paid curriculum and online resources

• Specialized therapies or tutoring your child needs to succeed

• Transportation to a school outside your neighborhood

Read our guide: “How to Use Your Voucher”

❌ If You Don’t Qualify

You still have options:

• Apply to tuition-free public charter schools

• Look into magnet schools with specialized learning models

• Enroll in a free online public school

• Consider homeschooling with free curriculum

• Join microlearning pods or after-school enrichment programs

Read our blog: “Didn’t Get a Voucher? Here Are Your Options”

🧭 Stay Informed with These Trusted Sources

📰 News & Bill Tracking

• Texas Tribune – Easy-to-read news on Texas politics and education

• Texas Legislature Online – Track the bill's progress and read the full text

🧠 Advocacy & Research

• Raise Your Hand Texas – Advocates for strong public schools

• Texas Public Policy Foundation – Supports school choice legislation

• IDRA – Research focused on equity for Latino and underserved students

• Children at Risk – Research-based advocacy on child well-being and school quality

👨‍👩‍👧 Community Groups & Forums

• Facebook: Search “Texas school choice parent group” to connect with others

• Reddit: Visit r/TexasEducation for real parent questions and answers

What’s Next? Let’s Make It Clear.

No matter your opinion, this bill is going to change education in Texas. That’s why TexEd is here—to help you:

• Understand what’s happening

• Know your options

• Get the support you need

• Use your voice in a way that matters