governmentSchool choice rollout sets nationwide records

February 2026

Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes education freedom.

Having first been called to public service on my local school board and later having the opportunity to coauthor the legislation that established our state’s school choice system, it is an honor to now lead the agency bringing this historic initiative to life. The 89th Legislature’s Senate Bill 2 set ambitious deadlines to stand up an education savings account program, and we have moved at business speed to deliver.

Our team has officially launched the largest day-one school choice program in the nation’s history. The rollout is drawing national attention for strong execution, fiscal safeguards and parent-friendly processes — and most importantly, for the overwhelming response from Texas families.

When the application window opened Feb. 4, more than 8,000 student applications were submitted in the first hour. By the end of that day, the number had climbed to more than 42,000. Now, at the midway point of the six-week application period, more than 130,000 student applications have been submitted — with three weeks to go before the March 17 deadline.

In the upcoming school year, Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) will open doors, expand opportunities and give Texas students the chance to learn in the environment that fits them best.

Launching a program of this size requires managing many moving parts. Our focus has been clear: Build a system that works for families while protecting taxpayer dollars.

So far, more than 2,000 accredited private schools and pre-K providers have registered to accept TEFA funds, along with more than 200 education service providers — including tutors, therapists and other specialized support services. Many more will register in the coming weeks.

Families will learn their funding status later this spring, with totals set by statute and administered in coordination with the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Participating students who enroll in accredited private schools will be eligible to receive $10,474 for the 2026–27 school year — 85 percent of the statewide average for state and local funding per public school student.

Participating students with a disability and an active Individualized Education Program (IEP) on file with TEA may be eligible to access up to $30,000. All other accepted students, including homeschool students, may receive $2,000 per year.

We have worked to keep the process straightforward and accessible. The TEFA website – EducationFreedom.Texas.Gov – provides comprehensive information and resources, including a school-finder tool with a map updated regularly as additional schools enroll. A parent preparation checklist helps families understand program requirements and priorities as they plan. Applications are mobile-friendly and can be completed in minutes. Once funded, families will purchase approved products and services through a secure, easy-to-use online marketplace.

This program was designed to operate at the speed of business while maintaining strong fiscal oversight, transparency and accountability. Every safeguard is in place to protect taxpayer dollars while empowering parents to choose the best path forward for their children.

We remain committed to keeping Texans informed every step of the way. The most up-to-date information is available at the TEFA website, where families can also sign up to receive email updates.

Education freedom has finally arrived in Texas — and we are just getting started.