MISD monitoring impact of state voucher program

MIDLAND As the initial application period for the Texas Education Savings Account (ESA) program comes to a close, Midland ISD is sharing information related to applications submitted by families residing within the district's attendance boundaries and the schools approved to participate in the program locally.

The state's voucher program was made possible through the 89th Legislative Session in 2025, when $1 billion in taxpayer funding was designated to be used over a two year period. The State has contracted with Odyssey at a cost of up to $80 million to facilitate the state voucher program.

According to information released by the state, 1,462 ESA applications were submitted by families residing within Midland ISD boundaries. Of those applications, only 344 students, or approximately 24%, were enrolled in Midland ISD during the 2024-25 school year. This means approximately 76% of applications submitted from within Midland ISD boundaries were from students who were not enrolled in Midland ISD schools. Of the 344 applications, 146 were awarded a Tier 1 or Tier 2 voucher, meaning 146 families are actively looking for a private or homeschool option.

According to the comptroller's implementation timeline, private schools must choose the students they will accept by June 15 to receive funding July 1.

The state has approved 11 participating schools within Midland ISD boundaries. Five of those approved entities are childcare centers serving Pre-K aged children. Other approved providers include an out-of-state online school, a school for students with special needs, and various religious-affiliated schools. Statewide, approved providers participating in the program represent organizations from 33 different states.

Those schools are shown below and can be viewed through this link.

Midland ISD continues to monitor participation data and its potential impact on the district's enrollment. While application numbers provide an early indication of interest in the program, they do not necessarily reflect final enrollment decisions, as families may apply for the program while also exploring other educational options.

"As this new program is implemented, we will continue monitoring participation data and evaluating any potential impact on the district. Regardless of the educational setting families choose, Midland ISD remains committed to providing exceptional opportunities and experiences for the nearly 29,000 students we serve," Dr. Stephanie D. Howard, superintendent of Midland ISD, said in a news release.

Midland ISD will continue to review enrollment trends and information released by the state as additional data becomes available.

The post MISD monitoring impact of state voucher program appeared first on Odessa American.

Copyright 2026 Tribune Content Agency. All Rights Reserved.