Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions a family can make. In Texas, the government recently made a huge change that lets families use public money to send kids to private schools. This change has made many people feel excited, worried, hopeful, or angry. Let’s explore what happened, why it matters, and how it could affect students and schools across the U.S.
What Did the Governor Do?
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a historic law on May 3, 2025, creating the largest school voucher program in U.S. history . Starting September 2026, families can get:
- Up to $10,000 per child for private school tuition
- $30,000 per child with disabilities
- $2,000 per homeschool student
This program is funded with $1 billion over the next two years .
Why Does This Matter?
This is a big change in how schools work. Supporters argue it’s about giving parents freedom to choose the best school for their child. But critics worry it will steal money from public schools, making it hard for them to pay for teachers, buses, and sports .
Who Gets the Money?
Up to 5 million students in Texas could use vouchers . However:
- Some families might already be in private schools, so they just get a discount .
- Critics say the vouchers won’t cover full tuition, extra fees, or school transport .
- Private schools aren’t legally forced to accept any student. They might still turn away low-income or special needs kids .
What Could Go Wrong?
Experts warn that taking money from public schools could hurt students, especially in rural and low-income areas:
- Public districts might lose $250 million in the first year .
- Worst-case estimates warn the loss could reach $2 billion if many students leave .
- Small-town schools are often the centre of rural life. If they lose students, towns could shrink .
How Are People Reacting?
Supporters say:
- This is a win for parents’ rights and gives hope for quality education .
Opponents say:
- It’s a bank transfer to wealthy families. Most benefits go to students already in private schools .
- Public schools risk losing funds and might close programs or campuses .
What Happens Next?
- The law will officially start in late 2026 .
- Texas plans to fund this with $1 billion now, but future funding isn’t guaranteed .
- The change is spreading across the U.S., with states watching to see how well (or poorly) it works.
The new Texas voucher law is an emotional issue for many. Families who can’t afford private school may finally have a chance. But students in public schools—especially in smaller towns—could suffer serious losses. As this program begins in 2026, Texas will become a testing ground for whether vouchers help or hurt kids and communities. It will be crucial to watch how public schools adapt, how private schools select students, and whether the law lives up to its promise of “choice” for all.
