Catholic Schools in the Panhandle

Education Savings Accounts (ESA)

1. Empowering Catholic Families in the Texas Panhandle (Dioceses of Lubbock & Amarillo)

Why Catholic Schools…. Greetings from the Superintendent
Why Catholic Education?
Faith and Excellence
In Catholic Schools, families don’t have to choose between strong academics and strong values. Our Catholic schools provide both—educating the whole child in mind, heart, and spirit.
A Partnership with Purpose
We believe parents are the first and most important teachers of their children. Our schools partner with families to form students who are not only well-prepared for college and career, but also rooted in faith, virtue, and purpose.
Christ at the Center
In every classroom and every school community, we keep Christ at the center. Students are supported by dedicated, faith-filled educators who nurture compassion, integrity, respect for the dignity of every person, and a deep relationship with God.
More Than a School—A Mission
Catholic schools are more than just places of learning—they are communities of love and formation in discipleship, serving as the foundation for lifelong leadership and service. Catholic schools don’t just prepare students for the next test—they prepare students for the lives God calls them to lead.

 

Christine Wanjura Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dioceses of Lubbock and Amarillo

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2. What is an Educational Savings Account?

What is an Education Savings Account (ESA)?

With Senate Bill 2, a statewide Education Savings Account (ESA) program was signed into law and will be available for the 2026-2027 school year.

ESAs are a publicly funded savings account that can be used for qualified educational expenses, including private and Catholic school tuition, uniforms, meals, textbooks, therapies, tutoring, and more. The program prioritizes students with disabilities and low-income families, creating a pathway to Catholic education. Our Catholic schools are rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ where students grow in faith and wisdom.

Parents are the first and most important educators for their children. The Education Savings Account program helps parents fulfill that role with more freedom and support.

What are approved expenses?

💵 Tuition & Fees
📚 Uniforms & Textbooks
🎓 Tutoring & Therapies
🚌 Meals & Transportation
💻 Technology & Instructional Materials


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3. Funding & Eligibility

How ESA Works in Texas

Funding Highlights:

💰 $1 billion statewide program
👨‍👩‍👧 ~90,000 students supported
💸 ~$10,000 per child, per year
♿ Up to $30,000/year for children with disabilities

 

Eligibility:

Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident eligible for Texas public school
Priority Groups:

Students with disabilities (≤ 500% poverty level)
Low-income families (≤ 200% poverty)
Moderate-income families (201–500% poverty)
Remaining eligible children (especially public-to-private transfers)

 

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4. ESA in Lubbock & Amarillo

Diocese of Lubbock
The Diocese of Lubbock is committed to supporting families in choosing a Catholic education through ESA opportunities.
👉 [Learn More – Lubbock ESA] www.catholiclubbock.org

Diocese of Amarillo
The Diocese of Amarillo is committed to supporting families in choosing a Catholic education through ESA opportunities.

👉 [Learn More – Amarillo ESA] www.amarillodiocese.org

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5. Get Started

Ready to Explore ESA?
Contact your Diocesan Catholic Schools Superintendent for help applying:
Christine Wanjura
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Dioceses of Lubbock and Amarillo
Phone: 806-792-3943 Ext. 244
E-mail: [email protected]

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Catholic Schools