Two school choice bills in the Texas Legislature are unlikely to solve education issues in the state. Instead of addressing the problem of low-income students stuck in failing schools, the proposed voucher program is more likely to benefit those who already have strong education options.
The Senate bill would prioritize disabled or low-income students, defining low income as up to five times the federal poverty level, while the House proposal would prioritize students with disabilities and those from families with incomes at or below two times the poverty line.
Both proposals would allow students to receive funds for various educational expenses, but lack a plan to address the real issue of low-income students in failing schools. The program is projected to serve around 100,000 students in its first year, which is only 2% of Texas’ K-12 population.
The bills differ in the amount of funding per student, with the Senate proposal setting specific amounts and the House formula determining funds based on per-pupil funding. Both proposals include oversight measures and an online marketplace for parents to make approved purchases.
However, critics argue that the program is more of an income transfer to better-off families and will not significantly improve opportunities for those who need it most. Instead, they advocate for a more targeted program that focuses on helping those who are most in need of better educational opportunities.
Overall, the current school choice proposals in Texas are facing criticism for not effectively addressing the issue of low-income students in failing schools and are seen as benefiting those who already have access to quality education options.
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