Ft Worth Times

Matthew Louis, a parent in the Keller Independent School District (ISD), expressed support for school choice, stating it would benefit his family by allowing them to use funds typically taxed for their children's tuition. Louis made these remarks to the Ft. Worth Times on February 13.

"I currently have four children with one in private school," said Louis. "School vouchers would help us pay for school with the money we have and will pay in taxes."

In Texas, the debate over school choice has intensified with the advancement of Senate Bill 2. According to NBC DFW News, this bill proposes a $1 billion voucher program to provide families with $10,000 per student annually for private school tuition and related expenses. Governor Greg Abbott supports the initiative, saying it empowers parents to choose better educational options for their children. The bill has passed the Texas Senate but faces challenges in the House, where a coalition of rural Republicans and Democrats have historically opposed similar measures.

Keller ISD is confronting a $10 million deficit due to declining enrollment and budget shortfalls. Kera News reports that Chief Operating Officer John Allison and financial experts highlighted these financial struggles at a January 30 meeting, citing declining enrollment, state funding shortfalls, and past overspending as key issues. Despite cutting nearly $45 million over two years, President Charles Randklev said that further measures are needed to maintain financial stability and quality education.

Recent surveys indicate strong support among Texas parents for school choice initiatives. A statewide survey conducted by the Texas Public Policy Foundation from February 1-3 found that 77% of K-12 parents favor making education more flexible, with 75% supporting school choice.

Texas State Representative David Lowe represents the Keller ISD area in House District 091.

Keller ISD is located in Tarrant County, Texas, serving over 34,000 students across 41 campuses.