TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Carroll ISD
TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Carroll ISD
Carroll ISD serves Southlake and surrounding areas with approximately 8,100 students across 11 campuses. The district covers 21 square miles in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro and is known for very high academic performance and a high-income demographic. Families in Carroll ISD have access to the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program for the 2026-27 school year. This guide provides district-specific context on eligibility, funding, and alternatives to help you evaluate TEFA within the Carroll ISD attendance zone.
Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov
Overview of TEFA for Families in Carroll ISD
TEFA provides $10,474 for private school students, up to $30,000 for students with an IEP on file, and $2,000 for homeschool students. Southlake and the surrounding North Dallas suburbs have a strong private school presence; tuition at premium schools often exceeds $25,000. The standard TEFA amount may cover a portion of tuition at mid-range schools. Families with children who have an IEP may qualify for the higher tier. Homeschool families receive $2,000 per eligible child. See the TEFA overview for full program details.
District Overview and Student Population Context
Carroll ISD serves Southlake and portions of surrounding communities in Tarrant and Denton Counties. The district operates 11 schools and consistently earns an A rating from the TEA. Carroll ISD has one of the highest median household incomes among Texas districts and a very low economically disadvantaged population. Official district information: Carroll ISD. TEA profile: Carroll ISD on Texas School Report Cards.
Private School and Alternative Education Availability near Carroll ISD
Southlake and the surrounding area have a strong private school presence, including faith-based and college-preparatory options. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. Carroll ISD itself is highly rated; many families choose the district's public schools. TEFA may be relevant for those seeking faith-based instruction or a different educational model. Homeschool co-ops serve the Southlake community. For homeschool funding, see our homeschool page.
TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District
Southlake-area private school tuition often ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 or more per year. The standard TEFA amount of $10,474 may cover a portion of tuition at mid-range schools; at premium schools, families will have an out-of-pocket gap. Students with an IEP on file may qualify for up to $30,000. Use the funding calculator to estimate your amount. Full funding details: TEFA overview.
Eligibility Considerations Specific to Families in Carroll ISD
TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. Carroll's very high income profile means fewer families may fall into income-based priority tiers, but all eligible families may apply. Residency in Carroll ISD does not change eligibility. See the eligibility requirements. If your child has an IEP, review our special needs funding page.
How to Apply from Within Carroll ISD
The application process is the same regardless of district. Apply through Odyssey during the window (February 4 – March 17, 2026). You will need proof of Texas residency, proof of the child's age, and—if applicable—IEP documentation. Our application guide walks through each step. Carroll ISD students who are accepted into TEFA will leave the district to attend a participating private school or to homeschool.
Next Steps and Funding Calculator CTA
- Check eligibility — Confirm your child meets the requirements.
- Use the funding calculator — Estimate your potential amount and compare to Southlake-area tuition.
- Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the Carroll ISD area.
- Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.
For metro-wide context, see TEFA in Dallas.
Frequently Asked Questions (Carroll ISD)
Is Carroll ISD the same as Southlake?
Yes. Carroll ISD serves Southlake and surrounding areas. The district is often referred to as Carroll ISD or Southlake Carroll.
How many schools does Carroll ISD have?
Carroll ISD operates 11 schools serving approximately 8,100 students across 21 square miles. The district consistently earns an A rating from the TEA.
Where can I find Carroll ISD's official district information?
The official district website is southlakecarroll.edu. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.
Why would Carroll ISD families consider TEFA?
Carroll ISD is highly rated. Some families consider TEFA when seeking faith-based instruction, a different pedagogical approach, or specialized programs not available in the district.
When is the TEFA application deadline?
The application window runs February 4 – March 17, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central Time on March 17. Application guide.
TEFA Providers Serving Carroll ISD
Providers in the Dallas area that participate in TEFA.