Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA)
How can the Texas Education Freedom Accounts help your family?
With Senate Bill 2, a statewide Education Savings Account program, called the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), was signed into law and will be available for the 2026-2027 school year.
Parents are the first and most important educators for their children. The Texas Education Freedom Accounts help parents fulfill that role with more freedom and support.
More information: diocesesoftyler.org and educationfreedom.texas.gov
UPDATE (December 5, 2025):
The TEFA registration date for families is WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2026. The website from Odyssey has not been released yet.
A Great Opportunity for Families
TEFA has the potential to open doors for families by helping reduce financial barriers and allowing parents to choose the learning environment that works best for their child. It may especially help students who need additional support services or have unique learning needs.
We HIGHLY Encourage Every Family to Apply
While funding is limited and not all applicants may be selected, we strongly encourage all families to apply once the application window opens.
Applying does not commit you to using the program if you’re selected — it simply ensures your child is included in the process and gives you the option to access the funds if you choose to use them later. It’s always better to have the opportunity available.
Bishop Gorman Catholic School Financial Aid Requirements & TEFA
TEFA Application Requirement for Priority Financial Aid:
Families seeking priority financial aid at Bishop Gorman Catholic School must first apply for a TEFA account.
Proof of TEFA application must be emailed to admissions@bishopgorman.net before the priority deadline.
Priority Financial Aid Deadline:
March 1, 2025 is the deadline for priority financial aid.
Families applying after March 1 will have funds distributed based on what is remaining.
TEFA Fund Use:
Tuition and enrollment fees
Required educational materials
Other school-related expenses allowed by TEFA
Funds cannot be used for personal or non-school-related expenses.
TEFA Priority Tiers:
Highest priority: Students with special needs and family income under 500% of the Federal Poverty Rate (FPR)
Low-income families: Income up to 200% of FPR
Moderate-income families: Income between 200% and 500% of FPR
Lowest priority: Families over 500% of FPR; funds awarded only if available
Proof of TEFA Application:
Acceptable proof includes a TEFA confirmation email, application receipt, or screenshot showing submission.
TEFA & Bishop Gorman Financial Aid Exclusivity:
Students who receive TEFA funds are not eligible for Bishop Gorman Catholic School financial aid.
Additional Notes:
Applying for TEFA does not guarantee funding, but it is required to be considered for priority Bishop Gorman financial aid.
We recommend and encourage all families to apply, regardless of income or need, to ensure every student has access to potential funding.
What’s Next?
The state will provide final guidance soon, including the online platform and instructions.
We will continue to keep a close eye on updates and share them with you right away.
Watch superintendent, Dr. Darbie Safford's webinar if you have not already done so.
For questions, please call the school office at 903-561-2424