Now Is the Time to Act: FIE, IEP, and TEFA Funding

TEFA applications will open to parents on Feb 4th 2026. At School of Lexia our shared goal is to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive. One of the most important steps families can take right now—both educationally and financially—is to ensure their child has a Full Individual Evaluation (FIE) and,  an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in place, if applicable.
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If you do not already have these, now is the time to act.
Here’s why this matters:

• An FIE (or an official diagnosis from a qualified diagnostician) documenting dyslexia or related learning “disabilities” is expected to qualify a student for prioritization in the TEFA (Texas Education Freedom Account) lottery system (pending income threshold of 500% of the federal poverty level).
• An IEP for Dyslexia or related learning differences from a public or charter school WILL qualify a student for additional TEFA funding when a voucher is awarded, based on the learning differences specified in the IEP. This is true even if you don't meet the income thresholds for prioritization.

While the state has not released a comprehensive list of qualifying diagnoses, we do know:

• Dyslexia and related learning differences are expected to qualify for prioritization.
• ADHD alone will not qualify for prioritization.

Funding amounts have not yet been finalized, but current estimates suggest that a student with an IEP for dyslexia could qualify for $12,000–$15,000 per year if awarded TEFA funding. Beginning the process now helps ensure you are positioned to take advantage of this opportunity when applications open.
An FIE is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a public school district to identify a student’s learning strengths and challenges. When eligibility is determined, it can lead to an IEP, which formally documents diagnoses, accommodations, and services.

Even if your child attends a private school, families have the right to request an FIE through their resident public school district at no cost.

To help you get started, we’ve included the following materials, 
AVAILABLE HERE:

• A PDF guide explaining how to request an FIE
• A PDF overview of the IEP process
• Mansfield ISD - Special Education (If you are not zoned for MISD, reach out to the district and specific school you are zoned for)

Initiating the process requires a written request to your local school district. Because state and federal timelines apply, waiting could limit your options.
While School of Lexia does not conduct FIEs or create IEPs, we are happy to support you with guidance, documentation, and advocacy as you navigate this process.
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If you have questions or would like help determining next steps, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for partnering with us and for advocating for your child’s future.

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