The new Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program allows teachers to work as independent tutors or "teacher-preneurs" through approved vendors. Supporters argue that this could increase income and flexibility for teachers, while critics argue it highlights low teacher pay. The first round of funding will be used for 42,000 families in the 2026-27 school year. Teachers who apply as TEFA vendors could earn rates comparable to classroom salaries by tutoring 25–30 hours a week at roughly $30–$35 per hour. However, Monty Exter, governmental relations director for the Association of Texas Professional Educators, said some districts may restrict teachers from tutoring students on their campus or any student in the district.