Texas Unveils Rules for First Statewide School Choice Program

By Brandon Waltens | Texas Scorecard | August 22, 2025

Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock announced the publication of proposed rules to implement the state’s new Education Savings Account program, marking the first statewide school choice plan in Texas.

“Every Texas child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in the environment that works best for them and their family,” Hancock said. “It’s important that the rules for our first school choice program adhere strictly to the enacting legislation and keep us on track to have the program ready for families by the 2026-27 school year.”

The program, passed by the legislature earlier this year, allows parents to access a portion of state education funds for private schooling and other approved educational expenses. The comptroller’s office will oversee the program, with day-to-day management handled by one or more certified educational assistance organizations.

A certified educational assistance organization is a state-approved group contracted by the comptroller to manage the daily operations of the Education Savings Account program, including handling applications, verifying eligibility, and processing family payments.

Children are eligible if they could otherwise attend a Texas public school but are not currently enrolled. Priority is given to students with disabilities and those from lower-income households, while families earning more than 500 percent of the federal poverty level may participate, but no more than 20 percent of program funds can go to that group.

Each account will receive about 85 percent of the average per-student allotment used in public schools, with students with disabilities eligible for additional funding tied to their individualized education plans, capped at $30,000 annually.

Homeschooled students are limited to $2,000 a year.

Funds may be spent on private school tuition, textbooks, uniforms, tutoring, therapies, transportation, technology, and school meals, with purchases made through a state-approved marketplace. Parents must certify that funds will be spent only on approved expenses, while providers—including private schools, tutors, and vendors—must apply for state approval and meet background, accreditation, and accountability requirements.

Fraudulent use of funds can result in removal from the program and repayment. Hancock said that it includes transparency measures to ensure accountability and regular reporting to safeguard taxpayer dollars.

The proposed rules open a 30-day public comment period, after which the comptroller’s office will review feedback and make revisions before final adoption. Families will be able to apply beginning in early 2026, keeping the program on track for its launch in the 2026–27 school year.

The program is funded at $1 billion for its pilot year.

“Freedom, accountability, and a commitment to the next generation” are at the center of the rollout, added Hancock.

Brandon Waltens

Brandon serves as the Senior Editor for Texas Scorecard. After managing successful campaigns for top conservative legislators and serving as a Chief of Staff in the Texas Capitol, Brandon moved outside the dome in order to shine a spotlight on conservative victories and establishment corruption in Austin. @bwaltens