For Catholic families, this is more than just policy; it reflects a deeply held belief that education should form the whole person: mind, body and spirit. Catholic schools have long been committed to this mission, offering an education that is academically excellent, rooted in Gospel values and dedicated to helping children become who God created them to be.

Through the TEFA program, eligible families will receive support to direct funds toward educational expenses such as tuition at nonpublic schools, including Catholic schools. For many parents who dream of Catholic education but face financial challenges, this program represents a significant new pathway of access.

This aligns with the new campaign of the Diocese of Austin Catholic Schools: “Catholic Schools: Your Choice, Their Future.” At its heart, this message reminds us that when families are given the freedom to choose, they can give their children the gift of a Christ-centered education that not only prepares them for college and career, but also forms them in virtue, character and faith.

Catholic schools are places where faith and reason work hand in hand to prepare students for life. The TEFA program allows more families to choose this path for their children. Every parent who desires a Catholic education should be able to access it, regardless of their financial situation.

Catholic schools are communities where teachers see their work as a vocation, where children are known by name and where every subject is illuminated by faith. Research consistently shows that Catholic schools not only excel academically but also help students grow into compassionate leaders and active disciples.

“When parents choose a Catholic school, they are choosing to exercise their right to reinforce at every level what they teach at home and in the parish — that their children are beloved sons and daughters of God called to become saints. The TEFA program honors this parental right and helps make Catholic education accessible for all families,” said Father Will Rooney, pastor of St. Mary Parish and School in Temple.

The TEFA program provides families with an unprecedented chance to make that choice more freely. As a church, we support parents in discerning what is best for their children. Education is never one-size-fits-all. The beauty of Catholic schools is that they offer something uniquely powerful: rigorous academics, strong community and a foundation in faith that lasts a lifetime.

As we move forward, the Diocese of Austin is committed to helping families navigate these new opportunities with clarity and confidence. Our hope is that more children will be able to benefit from the gift of Catholic education and that parents will feel empowered to exercise their God-given role as the first educators of their children.

We invite you to stay informed, stay engaged and explore how Catholic education might be the right choice for your family.

To learn more about the Texas Education Freedom Account program and how it supports Catholic school families, visit csdatx.org/schoolchoice.