ESA Press Release

Catholic Schools Office Shares Resources on New Texas School Choice Program, Education Savings Account (ESA)

Austin, TX — The Diocese of Austin Catholic Schools Office is committed to supporting families as they consider the new Texas School Choice program, known as the Education Savings Account (ESA). This state program, set to launch in the 2026–2027 school year, will provide eligible families with $10,000 per student, per year to cover approved educational expenses.

For Catholic families, this program represents an important new opportunity to make a faith-filled Catholic education more affordable and accessible. ESA funds may be used toward tuition at Catholic schools, in addition to other approved educational services.

“As parents and guardians, you are the first and most important educators of your children,” said Misty Poe, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Austin. “The ESA program recognizes and supports this sacred role by giving families the freedom to choose an education that reflects their faith, values, and hopes for their children’s future. We are here to walk alongside families every step of the way.”

To help Catholic school families learn more, the Catholic Schools Office has launched a new resource hub: csdatx.org/parentalchoice. There, parents can:

• Get clear, up-to-date information on how the ESA program works

• Sign up for updates on the application process

• Access FAQs and talking points designed specifically for Catholic school families

• Explore how Catholic schools integrate faith, academics, and character formation

The Diocese of Austin encourages families to stay informed and prepared ahead of the ESA application launch.

Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin form a unified school system made up of 19 Catholic Schools ranging from Pre-K to 12th grade that collectively educate over 5,200 students across Central Texas. The entire school system stretches from the city of West in the north to Buda in the south, and from Bryan-College Station area in the east to Killeen in the west. Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin empower families to raise their children with Catholic Values. We provide transformative education through the integration of quality academics with the teaching of Catholic values. For more information, visit www.csdatx.org