Exclusive Education
Dear Editor,
Hats off to Sammie Seamon’s in-depth article on the many problems associated with Texas’ new voucher program, “The New Voucher Era” [News, Feb. 13].
I learned a lot from the article, and appreciate the in-depth research, and even the nuance, including for example perspective from parents like me – who are supportive of public education, yet still evaluating what options the vouchers could open up.
One major oversight: Even though the article contained a whole section focused on religious and parochial schools, it failed to mention that Gov. Abbott, A.G. Paxton, and Comptroller Hancock have restricted any voucher funds from going to Islamic schools. This is clearly discriminatory, and there’s an expectation that they’ll get sued and then compelled to provide funding because the outright bigotry driving their decision violates the law.
This part of the story has large local implications, as there are an estimated 60,000 Muslims in the Austin area, and at least eight Islamic schools in the city and surrounding area. It’s an important and developing part of the voucher story, so I was surprised it wasn’t included in the otherwise well-written and researched piece.
It is my hope the Chronicle will include coverage of the voucher issue in future issues, and that it incorporates the developments on the state’s attempted Muslim ban for voucher funds.
Ali Sohail Ishaq
This article appears in February 27 • 2026.
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