TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Highland Park ISD

TEFA Eligibility and Funding Guide for Highland Park ISD

Highland Park ISD serves the Highland Park community within Dallas with approximately 6,300 students across 8 campuses. The district is an affluent enclave known for very high academic performance and a strong private school presence in the surrounding area. Families in Highland Park 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 Highland Park ISD attendance zone.

Last updated: February 2026. Source: educationfreedom.texas.gov


Overview of TEFA for Families in Highland Park 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. The Highland Park and North Dallas area has premium private schools; tuition 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

Highland Park ISD serves the town of Highland Park, an incorporated municipality within Dallas. The district operates 8 schools with a very high-income demographic. Highland Park High School and the district's elementary and middle schools consistently rank among the top in Texas. Official district information: Highland Park ISD. TEA profile: Highland Park ISD on Texas School Report Cards.


Private School and Alternative Education Availability near Highland Park ISD

The Highland Park and North Dallas area has one of the state's strongest private school markets. The TEFA School Finder lists participating schools—verify each school's status. Highland Park 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 area. For homeschool funding, see our homeschool page.


TEFA Funding Coverage vs. Typical Tuition in This District

Highland Park and North Dallas 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 Highland Park ISD

TEFA eligibility is statewide; there are no district-specific requirements. Priority tiers favor returning participants, students with disabilities, and lower-income families. Highland Park's very high income profile means fewer families may fall into income-based priority tiers, but all eligible families may apply. Residency in Highland Park 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 Highland Park 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. Highland Park 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

  1. Check eligibility — Confirm your child meets the requirements.
  2. Use the funding calculator — Estimate your potential amount and compare to North Dallas tuition.
  3. Search the TEFA School Finder — Find participating schools in the Highland Park ISD area.
  4. Review the application guide — Apply by March 17, 2026.

For metro-wide context, see TEFA in Dallas.


Frequently Asked Questions (Highland Park ISD)

Where is Highland Park ISD located?

Highland Park ISD serves the town of Highland Park, an incorporated municipality within Dallas. The district is surrounded by Dallas ISD.

How many students does Highland Park ISD serve?

Highland Park ISD serves approximately 6,300 students across 8 campuses. The district has a very high-income demographic.

Where can I find Highland Park ISD's official district information?

The official district website is hpisd.org. The TEA district profile is available at txschools.gov.

Why would Highland Park ISD families consider TEFA?

Highland Park ISD is highly rated. Some families consider TEFA when seeking faith-based instruction or a different pedagogical approach 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 Highland Park ISD

Providers in the Dallas area that participate in TEFA.

Acton Academy Lakewood
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–12Special needs support
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St. Bernard Of Clairvaux School
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–8
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White Rock Montessori
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–8Special needs support
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Bishop Dunne Catholic High School
SchoolsDallasGrades 6–12
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Hopewell Development Center
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–PreK
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Notre Dame Of Dallas Sp School And Vocational Center
SchoolsDallasGrades 1–12Special needs support
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Cadence Academy
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–PreK
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St. Thomas Aquinas School
SchoolsDallasGrades PreK–8
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