El Paso, Texas (KFOX14-CBS4) – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has signed the law and signed the controversial school voucher program, marking the largest one-day school selection initiative in the United States. The program is supported by a state investment of $1 billion, allowing families to spend up to $10,000 in taxpayer money on private school tuition or other education expenses. Students with disabilities may receive up to $30,000, while homeschoolers are eligible for $2,000.
Supporters argue that the program gives parents more control over their children’s education. “It’s really hard now when parents realize that they’re being instilled in all this stupidity that their children don’t have a place to educate,” one supporter said.
But the program has raised concerns among El Paso parents and educators who fear that they can divert funds from public schools already facing budgetary issues. Critics argue that it could exacerbate low-income families of educational disparities and disadvantage. “I don’t think it’s fair. I think they’re taking it from those who need it the most,” said one worrying parent.
“How do you increase your basic allocation by $230 and believe you are treating us fairly, you don’t treat us fairly,” said Dr Xavier de la Torre of the Isletta Independent School District.
The law requires that the program be implemented in the state director’s offices so that funds are available for the 2026-2027 academic year by March 2026. As the debate continues, some parents are considering switching from public education to private education, but local supervisors are concerned about the potential impact on public school budgets and registration.
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