Finding a kindergarten that delivers both a strong Christian education and a price that works for your family has never been easy — until now. St. Peter School is launching its inaugural kindergarten program in Fall 2026, and as a Texas ESA-accepted school, it offers Justin families access to up to $10,474 per student per year in Education Freedom Account funding. That means the same high-quality, faith-based, dual-accredited Christian education that would normally carry a premium price tag is now within reach. Located nearby in Northlake, Texas, St. Peter is a natural fit for Justin families seeking an affordable kindergarten option that doesn't compromise on quality or values.
Texas ESA: How It Makes Christian Kindergarten Affordable
The Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program is a new state-funded initiative that gives families real financial power to choose the educational environment that's best for their child. Created by the Texas Legislature in 2025 through Senate Bill 2 with $1 billion in first-year funding, TEFA provides eligible families with a savings account that can be used for private school tuition and a range of approved educational expenses (Texas Education Freedom Accounts).
For the 2026-2027 school year, families enrolling their child in an approved private school or kindergarten program can receive $10,474 per student — an amount set by the Texas Education Agency based on 85% of the statewide average per-student public school funding (Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts). Families with children who have an IEP on file may qualify for up to $30,000 annually.
Here's what that means for Justin families in practical terms: with ESA funding applied to St. Peter School's kindergarten tuition, the out-of-pocket cost for a full-time Christian education could be remarkably low. For many families, the remaining balance after ESA funding is comparable to what they might already spend on aftercare, summer programs, and enrichment activities alongside public school enrollment.
Beyond tuition, TEFA funds can cover textbooks and instructional materials, required uniforms, academic assessments, private tutoring, transportation to and from the school, educational therapies, and even computer hardware or software (up to 10% of the annual account balance). It's comprehensive support that addresses the full cost of your child's educational experience.
How to Apply for TEFA
The TEFA application window is currently open from February 4 through March 17, 2026. Applications are submitted through the Odyssey portal at educationfreedom.texas.gov. You'll need your Texas driver's license or state ID, Social Security Numbers for yourself and your child, and your 2024 or 2025 IRS Form 1040. The application takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes, and you do not need to select a specific school at the time you apply — only indicate that your child will attend a private school (TEFA Parent Application Guide).
This is not a first-come, first-served program. Every application submitted within the window receives equal consideration. Funding notifications begin in early April 2026, with the first funds available July 1, 2026. Unused funds roll over as long as your child remains in the program, and participants in good standing do not need to reapply each year.
Why Justin Families Are Choosing St. Peter School
Justin is a growing community where families value close-knit connections, strong values, and a commitment to giving their children the best possible start. St. Peter School's kindergarten program reflects those same priorities — and its proximity to Justin (approximately 10 to 15 minutes away in Northlake) makes it a convenient daily commute.
For families who've been weighing the pros and cons of public versus private kindergarten, ESA changes the conversation. The financial barrier that once made Christian private education feel out of reach is significantly reduced, and what remains is a straightforward question: which program gives your child the best foundation for success?
At St. Peter, the answer is built on a combination of factors that are hard to find together elsewhere in the Justin area: a faith-centered curriculum, small class sizes, dual accreditation, and a brand-new facility — all at an ESA-supported price that makes this level of education genuinely affordable for working families.
What Makes St. Peter's Kindergarten Program Stand Out
St. Peter School's kindergarten program was designed with intentionality at every level. Here's what Justin families can expect:
Faith-Centered Education
As a school of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, St. Peter integrates faith into every aspect of the school day. Daily religion lessons, a Christ-centered culture, and the school's mission of developing "Scholars, Servants, and Saints to the Glory of God" create an environment where your child's spiritual, academic, and social-emotional growth are all nurtured together. Values like service, kindness, integrity, and gratitude aren't abstract concepts — they're practiced daily in real classroom interactions.
Small Class Sizes
St. Peter caps kindergarten classes at a maximum of 20 students, and as a founding class, the 2026 cohort is expected to be even smaller. Research consistently demonstrates the benefits of smaller classes for young learners. The Tennessee STAR study found that students in kindergarten classes of 13 to 17 students outperformed peers in larger classes of 22 to 25 students in reading and math, with academic advantages persisting into later grades (Brookings Institution). In a small founding class, St. Peter's teachers can truly know each child — their learning style, their strengths, and where they need additional support.
A Brand-New, Purpose-Built Facility
St. Peter's 22,000 square foot education facility in Northlake was built from the ground up with young learners in mind. Modern learning spaces, age-appropriate resources, and an environment that balances focused academic work with active play give students the physical setting they need to thrive.
Full-Time Program for Working Families
St. Peter's kindergarten is a full-time, five-day-per-week program — no hybrid schedule, no part-time component. Justin families can count on a consistent educational routine every school day, which is critical for both student development and family logistics.
State and National Accreditation: Your Assurance of Quality
Affordable doesn't mean cutting corners. St. Peter School holds dual accreditation — a distinction that independently verifies the quality of the program at both the state and national level.
National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) is the school's national accreditation, earned in September 2025 and valid through August 2030. The NLSA process requires a thorough self-study and an on-site evaluation by a visiting accreditation committee. It recognizes programs that meet rigorous national standards for curriculum, instruction, student services, and school governance.
Lutheran School Accreditation Commission (LSAC) provides state-level accreditation, adding another independent layer of quality assurance for Texas families.
For Justin families, dual accreditation means you're not taking the school's word for it — you have independent verification that the curriculum is sound, the teachers are qualified, the facilities are appropriate, and the school is committed to continuous improvement. It also satisfies the accreditation requirements for TEFA participation, ensuring that ESA funds can be applied seamlessly to your child's enrollment.
The Founding Class Opportunity
Fall 2026 is a unique moment for Justin families. St. Peter's founding kindergarten class will be the first students to experience this new program — and with that comes distinct advantages. A smaller-than-typical cohort means even more personalized attention. Children form the deep bonds and school culture that will define the community for years to come. And there's something genuinely meaningful about being part of a school's origin story.
St. Peter's growth plan is straightforward: kindergarten opens Fall 2026, first grade follows in Fall 2027, and one grade is added each year through fifth grade. A child who enters kindergarten this fall will have first grade waiting the next year, and every subsequent grade available on schedule. Current students always receive enrollment priority as new grades open, so your child's pathway is protected as the school grows.
For families currently in St. Peter's preschool program (ages 2-5), kindergarten represents a natural next step — no forced transition to a new school, new teachers, or a new environment. For families new to St. Peter, the school's proven track record in early childhood education offers confidence that the kindergarten program is built on a solid foundation. Learn more about the kindergarten and elementary program.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is St. Peter School from Justin, TX?
St. Peter School is located at 15701 Cleveland Gibbs Road in Northlake, Texas — approximately 10 to 15 minutes from Justin. The commute is convenient via Highway 114 or FM 156, making it one of the closest high-quality private kindergarten options available to Justin families.
How much will kindergarten cost after ESA funding?
With TEFA funding of $10,474 per student applied to kindergarten tuition, your remaining out-of-pocket cost is significantly reduced. For current tuition rates, visit the tuition and fees page. St. Peter also offers a 2% multi-child discount on tuition for additional enrolled children. TEFA funds can also cover approved expenses beyond tuition, including uniforms, textbooks, and transportation.
What is the deadline to apply for Texas ESA?
The TEFA application window closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on March 17, 2026. Applications are submitted through the Odyssey portal at educationfreedom.texas.gov. Funding notifications begin in early April, with first funds available July 1, 2026.
Does my income affect eligibility?
There are no income limits to apply. All Texas families can submit an application. Income only affects your priority tier in the event of a lottery. Higher-income families fall into Priority Tier 4, which is capped at 20% of total program funding. But every family should apply — the program is designed to be broadly accessible.
What accreditations does St. Peter hold?
St. Peter holds dual accreditation through the National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) at the national level and the Lutheran School Accreditation Commission (LSAC) at the state level. Both were earned in September 2025, with NLSA accreditation valid through August 2030. This dual accreditation verifies the school's commitment to educational excellence through independent external review.
What happens after kindergarten?
First grade opens Fall 2027, second grade in Fall 2028, and one additional grade is added each year through fifth grade. Current students receive enrollment priority for each new grade, ensuring your child's spot as the school grows. For more details, visit the elementary FAQ page.
Take the Next Step
Affordable, high-quality Christian kindergarten is no longer out of reach for Justin families. With Texas ESA funding, dual accreditation, small class sizes, and a brand-new facility, St. Peter School offers everything you're looking for in your child's first school experience — at a price that works.
We invite Justin families to tour our campus, meet our teachers, and discover how TEFA funding can make this level of education a reality for your family. Schedule a tour today and take the first step toward your child's founding class experience.
St. Peter Church & School
15701 Cleveland Gibbs Rd, Northlake, TX 76262
(817) 491-2010