Big News for Texas Families: What You Need to Know About Education Savings Accounts (ESAs)
There’s a major change coming to education in Texas—and it’s one that could open up more choices and flexibility than ever before.
Starting in the 2026–2027 school year, Texas will officially launch an Education Savings Account (ESA) program. Whether you’re currently homeschooling, considering private school, or somewhere in between, this initiative is designed to give families more control over their children’s education—and make personalized learning a real possibility.
As someone passionate about education and helping families find the right fit, I wanted to break down what this program means for you.
🎓 Who Is Eligible for a Texas ESA?
The ESA program is available to all Texas schoolchildren in Pre-K through 12th grade who are eligible to attend public school but instead choose:
Private school, or
Homeschooling (or a hybrid program that qualifies).
Note: Students cannot be enrolled in a public school and still receive ESA funds.
Priority will go to:
Students with disabilities
Children from low-income families (under 200% of the federal poverty level – around $64,300 for a family of four)
Families earning up to $160,750 (500% of the federal poverty level)
Students transitioning out of public school
If more families apply than funds allow, a lottery system will be used to decide who receives the ESA.
💰 How Much Can Families Receive—and How Can It Be Used?
Once accepted, families will receive an amount based on eligibility and school enrollment type. The funds will be placed in a state-managed account and can be used for approved educational expenses.
ESA Amounts:
$2,000+ for homeschool or curriculum-based learning
$10,000 for private school students (must be accredited by the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission)
$11,500 if the student has a disability
Approved Uses:
Private school tuition and fees
Textbooks and instructional materials
Tutoring or therapy services
Transportation costs
Computers/software (up to 10% of the funds)
This means families can finally get real support in choosing educational paths that best meet their children’s needs.
🧑🏫 What About Vendors and Tutors?
As a microschool founder and private educator, this part is especially exciting!
Educational vendors—including private schools, tutors, therapists, and curriculum providers—can apply to become approved providers under the ESA program.
To Qualify, Providers Must:
Be located in Texas
Meet educational qualifications (licensed or experienced educators, certified professionals, etc.)
Pass a national background check
Agree to only charge standard fees and follow ESA program guidelines
Services must be tied to learning and approved by the state. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and vendors will hear back within 30 days of submitting their application to the Texas Comptroller.
📆 Timeline & Next Steps
Right now, we’re still in the planning stages—applications and more program details are expected to roll out in the months leading up to the 2026–2027 school year.
The Texas Comptroller’s office will announce official application deadlines and vendor approval steps soon. Be sure to bookmark their website and check back regularly if you’re interested in participating as a family or a provider.
❤️ Final Thoughts
As a parent, I’m sure it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out the best path forward—especially when your child doesn’t quite fit into the public school mold. I’m hopeful that this ESA program will give families the freedom to choose what works best—whether that’s a small private school, homeschooling with personalized support, or targeted tutoring and therapy.
And if you’re an educational provider (like me!), this is your chance to help more students, grow your offerings, and be a part of something that’s truly reshaping education in Texas.
Have questions? Want help understanding how this might affect your family? Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to chat!
