AUSTIN, TX — Preliminary data from Texas’ new school voucher program shows most applicants are white families and students already enrolled in private or home-school settings, raising questions about who may benefit most from the initiative.
According to the state comptroller’s office, about 256,700 applications were submitted before the deadline. Of those, 45% came from white families, compared to 24% of Texas public school enrollment. Hispanic students made up 23% of applicants and Black students 11%, both lower than their representation in public schools. Low-income families accounted for 36% of applicants, compared to roughly 60% in the public school system.
The data also shows about 73% of applicants were already attending private school or were home-schooled during the previous academic year, suggesting limited early uptake among traditional public school students.
Under the program, families can receive about $10,500 annually for private school tuition, while home-school families may receive up to $2,000. Students with disabilities may qualify for as much as $30,000.
Demand has exceeded the program’s $1 billion funding cap, meaning the state will use a lottery system, prioritizing students with disabilities and lower-income households. Final participation figures may differ depending on eligibility and school acceptance.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
