On Thursday, Texas lawmakers passed a $1 billion education bill funding private school tuition that is expected to be signed by Governor Greg Abbott.
SAN ANTONIO — Texas lawmakers have passed a $1 billion dollar education bill allowing public funds for private school tuition. SB2 is now heading to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk where he is expected to sign it into law.
The school voucher program should launch in the 2026-2027 school year. Supporters argued it will help parents escape failing schools, but critics warn it will drain public school resources.
In San Antonio, several school districts have been forced to consolidate and close schools due to declining enrollment and funding.
That includes North East ISD. The school board voted in February to close three schools. Superintendent Sean Maika said his priority has always been to compete in what he calls an ‘education market place.’
“This wasn’t unexpected, I think all of us could see this coming,” Maika said.
While not unexpected, Maika said he can’t predict how it will impact his district.
“I can sit here and play the what if game. I don’t know,” Maika said.
The school voucher bill has been the Governor’s top priority this legislative session. The governor wrote on X, “Texas Families will soon have education freedom.”
The program would provide more than $10,000 towards tuition for participants each year. Republican State Senator Donna Campbell showed her support on the senate floor Thursday.
“Parents should have the right to choose the arena they feel is best to educate their child,” Campbell said. “Children deserve to not have their educational opportunities defined by a zip code.”
While Democratic State Senator Jose Menendez spoke in opposition.
“Does the private school have to accept anyone that shows up with the ESA and the answer is no,” Menendez said. “So really the choice is the private school’s choice.”
Leading up to the senate’s decision Thursday, several teachers have been traveling up to Austin to advocate against the vouchers.
That includes Northside AFT’s President, Melina Espiritu-Azocar. KENS 5 spoke to her just hours after the vote.
“It’s shameful that we are not focused more on appropriately funding public schools,” Espiritu-Azocar said. “That we’re not passing a funding bill first before passing a voucher bill. It’s a really sad day honestly.”
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick said Thursday, more than half of every dollar spent in Texas goes to public education.
“We will always cherish public education because that’s where 95% of our students will be,” Patrick said.
However, time will tell how the voucher program will shape the future of public education in Texas and in San Antonio.
“Ultimately, I committed my 31 years to doing what’s best for children and I want to make certain that, that’s what we’re doing as a system,” Maika said.