What is the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program?

Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) is a State of Texas education funding program designed to give families more choice in where their child learns.

Eligible families may apply for state-funded support to use at an approved private school, pre-K, or kindergarten program, like The Ark Schools.

Funds are awarded by the state and placed into a parent-managed account to help cover approved educational expenses.

How much funding can families receive?

Eligible families may receive $10,474 for the 2026–2027 school year.

This amount is intended to cover your scholar for the full academic year.

Please note:
– Funding is awarded by the State of Texas
– Funding is not guaranteed
– If applications exceed available funding, the state may use a lottery process

Which programs at The Ark Schools are included?

The Ark Schools plans to offer TEFA-funded enrollment for:

– Pre-K 3

– Pre-K 4

– Kindergarten

All programs follow a school-year calendar with a structured instructional day focused on early learning, routine, and school readiness.

Who should apply for TEFA funding?

Families should apply if their child will be:

– 3, 4, or 5 years old by September 1, 2026

Enrollment priority is given in the following order:

1. Current The Ark Schools families

2. Siblings of enrolled scholars

3. Community applicants

If applications exceed available funding, the State of Texas may conduct a lottery.

When does the TEFA application open?

The parent application window is:

 February 4 – March 17, 2026

We strongly encourage families to prepare documents ahead of time and join the TEFA Interest List to receive reminders and support.

What documents should I prepare?

Families should begin gathering:

– Parent SSN or ITIN

– Child’s Social Security Number

– Federal tax return (Form 1040 – 2024 or 2025)

– Proof of Texas residency, such as:

– Lease agreement

– Utility bill

– Texas driver’s license or ID

Additional documents may be required depending on eligibility.

Does The Ark Schools apply for TEFA on behalf of parents?

No. Parents must submit their own TEFA application directly through the State of Texas.

However, The Ark Schools will:

– Share reminders and important dates

– Provide document checklists

– Offer application support sessions to assist families during the process

We’re here to guide — not leave you guessing.

What happens after I apply?

Once applications close:

– The State of Texas reviews all submissions

– Eligibility and funding decisions are made

– Families are notified directly by the state

After awards are released, The Ark Schools will follow up with families to confirm enrollment and next steps.

What if I receive funding but decide not to enroll at The Ark Schools?

TEFA funding is tied to enrollment decisions.

Families who receive funding but choose not to enroll at The Ark Schools may need to notify the state and select another approved provider.

What does the school-day schedule look like?

Instructional Day:
 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

– Daily attendance cutoff: 8:30 AM

– Programs follow a school-year calendar aligned with the local school district

Is before- and after-school care available?

Yes. Wraparound care is optional and not included in TEFA funding.

Weekly Wraparound Rates:

– AM Care Only (6:00 AM – 7:30 AM): $70/week

– PM Care Only (3:30 PM – 6:00 PM): $75/week

– AM + PM Care: $145/week

Child Care Assistance (NCI) is accepted for wraparound care for eligible families.

What is included in tuition at The Ark Schools?

Tuition for TEFA-funded scholars at The Ark Schools includes:

– Instructional program

– Uniform

– Clear backpack

Is The Ark Schools approved for TEFA?

Yes.The Ark Schools:

– Is licensed and in good standing with the State of Texas

– Holds a Texas Rising Star (TRS) 4-Star rating

– Meets state quality and compliance requirements for TEFA participation

How can I stay informed and get support?

To stay updated on TEFA and enrollment:

– Join the TEFA Interest List

– Attend an information or application support session

– Watch for updates via Brightwheel and email

Upcoming Sessions:

– Virtual Information Session: January 20, 2026 | 6:30 PM

– In-Person Application Support:

– February 4 | 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

– February 4  | 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

– February 7 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Where can I learn more?

For official state information, visit: educationfreedom.texas.gov

For The Ark Schools-specific questions:

– Speak with your administrator

– Attend a TEFA information session

– Contact the The Ark Schools office