Protect Public Education in Texas - Oppose Voucher Programs

Voucher programs in Texas are detrimental to public education. By diverting funding away from public schools to private schools and vendors, vouchers undermine the resources available to support students, teachers, and staff across the state. For each student leaving a Texas public school through a voucher program, the campus loses around $10,000 in state and local funding. This leads to larger class sizes, program cuts, and diminished opportunities for the remaining students. In rural communities, just a handful of students utilizing vouchers could force layoffs or the elimination of extracurricular activities. Evidence shows vouchers often fail to cover the full cost of private school tuition, which averages over $12,000 nationally. Meanwhile, voucher programs primarily benefit families who could already afford private education, with 75-89% of voucher recipients in some states previously enrolled in private schools. Students with disabilities face particular harm, as vouchers lack legal protections guaranteeing access to necessary services that public schools must provide under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). No matter the branding – education savings accounts, tax credits, or specialized vouchers – these programs undermine public education's commitment to all students. Public funds should remain dedicated to public schools, ensuring adequate resources, accountability, and legally-mandated services for Texas students. Any form of voucher program ultimately hurts students by diverting funds away from the public education system.