Texas Signs Landmark School Choice Bill: What It Means for San Antonio Families

Big news for Texas parents: school choice is no longer just a talking point—it’s now law. On May 3, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed a sweeping school choice bill, allocating $1 billion in state funds to help families access nonpublic education options such as private schools and homeschooling. With Texas joining over 35 other states in adopting such measures, families across the state—including right here in San Antonio—are paying close attention.

But what does this actually mean for families in Bexar County and beyond? Let’s break it down.

🏫 What Is Texas's New School Choice Law?

The bill, now signed into law, sets aside $1 billion in funding that will allow around 100,000 students to apply for scholarships of approximately $10,500 for tuition at private schools or other educational needs (up to $30,000 for students with disabilities).

These education savings accounts (ESAs) can be used not only for tuition but also for textbooks, laptops, transportation, testing, and even meals during the school day.

This new law dramatically expands educational options and represents a major shift in the landscape of public education in Texas.

📍 What This Means for San Antonio Families

San Antonio has one of the most diverse education ecosystems in Texas. In addition to public ISDs like Northside, NEISD, SAISD, and Judson, families already have access to dozens of charter schools, private religious schools, and nationally-ranked academies like BASIS and Keystone.

Here’s how the school choice law may impact San Antonio:

• Increased demand for private and alternative schools: As state-funded scholarships become available, expect more families to seek enrollment in private schools like TMI Episcopal, San Antonio Christian, or the Montessori School of San Antonio.
• Rural and underserved areas may feel left out: Critics argue that many rural and lower-income neighborhoods lack access to alternative schools, and this may further widen the education gap in San Antonio’s south and west side neighborhoods.
• Homeschooling expansion: Many families in suburban areas like Alamo Ranch and Stone Oak are already leaning into homeschooling. The new law could allow these families to access financial assistance—but some homeschooling groups are concerned about future state regulation.

🔍 Who Gets the Money—and How?

To apply for funds, parents must submit applications through a state-approved portal. Scholarships will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and capped at 100,000 students—meaning not every interested family will be awarded.

Here’s a quick breakdown of funding:

• $10,500 per student for tuition and education costs
• Up to $30,000 for students with disabilities
• Funds can also be used for:
• Academic assessments
• Tutoring
• School supplies
• Curriculum
• Transportation costs

🗣 The Debate Over School Choice Continues

While many are celebrating this bill as a win for parental rights and educational freedom, others remain skeptical:

• Equity concerns: Opponents argue that vouchers benefit families who already send their kids to private schools—and do little for those who can’t afford to cover the remaining costs, even with a voucher.
• Public school funding fears: San Antonio’s public school districts are already grappling with teacher shortages, enrollment declines, and budget cuts. Critics fear that diverting state funds could strain them further.
• Capacity issues: Will there be enough seats in private schools to accommodate new voucher-funded students? Many San Antonio private schools already operate at capacity.

🇺🇸 A National Trend, But a Texas-Sized Impact

Texas has been one of the last holdouts on school choice, but with this bill, it now leads one of the most significant funding efforts in the country. Whether you view this as overdue reform or a challenge to public education, there’s no denying its reach—especially in major metro areas like San Antonio.

As a real estate professional, I often talk with families about school districts, educational options, and the long-term impact of where you live. This new law has the potential to shift how San Antonio families evaluate neighborhoods and school zones when buying a home.

💡 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or taxpayer, this is a change worth watching. And if you're planning a move or want to know how school choice might impact your neighborhood, let’s talk.

Education is one of the biggest factors influencing home values and lifestyle. Understanding your options can help you make smarter, more confident choices.

📍Want help navigating schools and neighborhoods in San Antonio?
Let’s schedule a time to chat about what areas best align with your family's needs.