Texas has passed a major education reform that supporters say could influence the rest of the country. The state approved a $1 billion Education Savings Account (ESA) program, marking a big step in the school choice movement. Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush says this move not only benefits Texas families, but also sets an example for other states looking to give parents more control over their children’s education.
In recent years, states like Arizona, Florida, and Iowa have adopted or expanded ESA programs. These accounts allow parents to use public funds to pay for private school tuition, tutoring, learning materials, and other education-related expenses. Texas’ program, set to begin in the 2026–2027 school year, is the largest new investment in this model so far.
Bush says the strength of the Texas plan is not just in its size, but in the chance it offers to build a more modern, efficient system. He notes that current ESA programs often require parents to apply for each purchase they want to make. This process can be slow and difficult, especially as more families join these programs.
Instead, Bush suggests that Texas could lead the way by using a debit card system. This would work much like a health savings account, where parents can buy approved education services and products directly. Behind the scenes, the system would use codes to track spending on things like tutoring, curriculum, therapy, or special classes. This approach would make the program easier for families to use, while still making sure the money is spent properly.
If Texas builds a strong and user-friendly ESA system, Bush believes other states could follow its example. A standard approach across states could help launch programs faster, reduce fraud, and offer better support to families. Rather than each state creating its own system from scratch, they could adopt best practices and proven tools.
Today, nearly 20 states have ESA programs. Bush says this marks a major change in how education is funded in America. More parents can now choose what type of education best fits their child. A decade ago, this kind of flexibility seemed out of reach.
Drawing from his experience in Florida, where school choice has grown for more than 25 years, Bush says it’s not enough just to pass these programs. They must also be well-designed. Parents should be free to choose without facing too many rules or delays. At the same time, taxpayers should feel confident that the money is used properly. And states need systems that can keep up as more people join.
Bush praises the Texas Legislature and Governor Greg Abbott for supporting this initiative. He says they now have the chance to not only launch a program, but to set a national standard. A well-run ESA program in Texas could influence education reform across the country.
Bush urges supporters to celebrate this step forward, but also to focus on how these programs are built. The structure matters just as much as the policy itself. Texas’ move is not just a win for local families — it could shape the future of education choice in America.
If done right, Bush says, the next wave of ESA programs will be faster, smarter, and more helpful to parents. Every family, no matter where they live, could gain access to a custom education that helps their child thrive.
