Indy Standard

Decatur County lawmakers are urging families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the September 1 deadline.

State Representative Alex Zimmerman (R-North Vernon) explained that the program provides monetary scholarships to students with disabilities, which can be used for educational resources tailored to their needs. These funds may cover pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other education-related expenses.

"Students with disabilities can face complex challenges and that's why families need flexibility when finding the best educational environment," Zimmerman stated. "These scholarships relieve some of the financial burden for parents so they have more options to make sure their child can succeed."

State Representative Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) noted that scholarships are available to Indiana residents aged 5 to 22 who require special education services and meet specific financial criteria.

"Having specialized resources for students who need them can make a huge difference in their education and in their quality of life," Meltzer said. "Education Scholarship Accounts are a way to help cover those expenses, meaning these Hoosiers will be able to learn and grow in a way that works for them."

According to State Representative Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville), scholarship funds do not count as income and do not affect other financial aid such as Medicaid.

"This is a great scholarship that allows families of students with disabilities to choose the best path for their child," Patterson remarked. "With these funds, families can seek specialized programs and educational tools that cater to their child's age, learning style, and requirements."

Patterson also mentioned that during the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers supported expanding ESAs to include siblings of students with disabilities. Students without a disability requiring special education services can receive state tuition support up to $8,000, while those requiring special education services support can receive up to $20,000.

Applications are open until September 1. For more information on providers and qualified schools or to apply, visit in.gov/tos/inesa.

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State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,

which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.

Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) represents House District 55,

which includes all of Fayette, Franklin and Union counties,

and portions of Decatur, Ripley and Rush counties.

Click here to download a high-resolution photo.