Some Republicans are optimistic about enacting school choice in next year’s session — but it might not be so easy

A ninth-grade student returns a classroom calculator to its pouch at Bowie High School in Austin on April 2013. Some Republicans say support for school choice is at an all-time high and are hopeful that the Texas Legislature will back related measures next year. (Credit: Tamir Kalifa for The Texas Tribune)

After decades of rejections, state Rep. Mayes Middleton, R-Wallisville, believes this upcoming legislative session is the one where Texas will finally pass a school choice program.

Supporters believe they will finally cross the finish line with backing from families displeased with public schools in the last two years over pandemic response rules and about how race and history are taught. Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and the Texas GOP have already listed school choice as a legislative priority for next year.