SE Texas Times

Travis Baughman, a parent from South Houston, expressed his support for the school choice bill currently under consideration in the Texas legislature. He said that the government has been "terrible stewards of our money and needs to return the option to the taxpayer." Baughman shared these views during an interview with the SE Texas Times on February 19.

"The government has been terrible stewards of our money and needs to return the option to the taxpayer, us to make the right decisions," said Baughman, Sugarland, TX resident.

According to Texas Senate News, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) offer parents the ability to select educational paths that best meet their child's needs. By allowing public funds allocated for education to be directed towards private schools, charter schools, or homeschooling, families can exert greater control over their children's learning environments. This system ensures that parents are not confined to neighborhood public schools but can choose institutions that align with their child's unique learning style and interests.

The Texas Tribune reports that Senate Bill 2 proposes financial assistance for families seeking private education options. The bill suggests providing up to $10,000 per student annually for eligible children to cover tuition fees at private schools. This initiative aims to make private schooling more accessible for families who might otherwise find it unaffordable, thus enabling children to access potentially higher-quality education.

State Representative Janis Holt has also voiced her support for school choice on her website. She said: "School Choice is of paramount importance in the realm of education as it empowers parents and students to make informed decisions about their personal learning journey."

Holt is a Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives, representing District 18 since January 14, 2025, according to Holt for Texas.