An Important Opportunity for Lower School Families

Happy New Year, lower school! 

As we begin another fantastic semester at Yellowstone Schools, we wanted to provide you with some exciting updates.

An Important Opportunity for Lower School Families

Beginning in the 2026–27 school year, lower school families will be required to apply for free tuition support for Yellowstone through the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. TEFA will help sustain Yellowstone’s long-standing commitment to affordability while ensuring continued access to a high-quality, faith-filled education. 

Keep an eye out for the first virtual and in-person information sessions, coming soon! We will also be hosting in-person TEFA registration clinics to assist with program registration.

What is TEFA?

A new state program that provides money to help pay for private school tuition and fees, like at Yellowstone’s lower school. (Yellowstone’s 6th-12th grade is a tuition-free public charter school and currently ineligible for funding, but we’re still encouraging you to apply so you’re covered for future opportunities.)

Want to learn more? Visit www.yellowstoneschools.org/tefa

What This Means for You

Most families we serve will qualify for more than $10,000 in tuition assistance through the new Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. All lower school families will be required to apply as part of the admissions process, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. If you apply for TEFA, receive funding, and allocate the total to Yellowstone, you will continue to pay little to nothing out of pocket for your student. All Yellowstone families will continue to receive some form of financial assistance.

A New Chapter for Yellowstone’s Upper School

Additionally, beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, our middle and high schools will be supported by a larger educational organization, bringing expanded resources, stronger academic support, and additional opportunities for students. In light of today’s evolving political and educational landscape—particularly changes to statewide accountability systems and funding structures—the Board of Directors voted to voluntarily return our charter to the Texas Education Agency at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year. This step allows Yellowstone’s upper school to join the charter of a larger organization, positioning it for long-term stability and success while continuing to serve Yellowstone students and families with excellence. Together, these changes ensure that Yellowstone Schools will continue to offer an exceptional, enhanced educational experience for students from PreK through 12th grade by leveraging the strength and support of a broader statewide network.

Looking Ahead

Next school year, we will celebrate 25 years of educational excellence in Houston’s Third Ward and the first graduation of our high school seniors. We are grateful for everyone who partners with us in our mission, and we look forward to serving students from PreK3 to 12th grade for many years to come.