Texas opens $1B voucher program as families apply for private schooling

Texas launched a private-school voucher program with a $1 billion budget for 2026-27. Families can apply now through March 17 to receive education savings accounts to fund private schooling or homeschooling, with funds first available July–August. If demand exceeds funds, priority goes to disabled students and lower-income families, but admission isn’t guaranteed. More than 20,000 applications have been filed; private schools must opt in and will be evaluated on tests other than STAAR. Typical awards run around $10,500 per year for most participants, up to $30,000 for some students with disabilities, and up to $2,000 for homeschooling families. Enrollment deadlines after applying are June 1 or July 15, with initial funding arriving mid-summer. The plan also faces a Cognia-related controversy affecting some schools.