School Choice is Now in Texas!
What is the Education Savings Account (ESA)?
Through the new Texas school choice program, the Education Savings Account (ESA), Catholic education may now be within reach for more families. Eligible students may qualify for $10,000 per year to help cover approved educational expenses, including tuition, materials, and services. More information can be found at https://csdatx.org/schoolchoice
Why do ESAs matter?
- The Church teaches that parents are the primary educators of their children.
- ESA respects this by empowering families with real choices.
- The ESA program promotes subsidiarity, educational justice, and access to Catholic formation.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2229 states:
“As those first responsible for the education of their children,
parents have the right to choose a school for them which corresponds to their own convictions…”
ESA at a Glance
$1 billion will be appropriated for the state of Texas. This means approximately 90,000 students statewide could participate in the program in the first year:
- Four categories of prioritization for applicants (see next section)
- A typical student would receive about $10,000; a special education student could receive more based on their needs
- Funds could be spent on a variety of educational expenses, including tuition at a private school, tutoring services, therapies, and more…
Who qualifies for ESA?
- Currently enrolled private school students are eligible.
- Students must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. and eligible to attend a Texas public school.
- If a student is approved, so is the student’s sibling(s) who applied.
When will the application process open?
The application process is slated to open in January, 2026. A direct link to the official application will be made available on the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin website when ready.
What can I do now?
Funds will be available beginning with the 2026-2027 school year. Families should start preparing now by:
● Learning about the program.
● Gathering any documents you may need (proof of citizenship and residency, income, Individualized Education Program (IEP) / private psychological evaluation, etc.)
● Talking with us at Sacred Heart Catholic School about how an ESA could help you. Call our office (979-968-3223) to schedule a tour and see if Sacred Heart is the right fit for your family!
For more information on applying for an ESA, visit the website for the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin at:
https://csdatx.org/schoolchoice
