Indy Standard

State Reps. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) and Tim O'Brien (R-Evansville) are urging families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

Ledbetter highlighted that the program offers monetary scholarships to students with disabilities, which can be utilized for various educational resources tailored to their learning needs. The funds cover pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other education-related expenses.

"Education Scholarship Accounts provide families financial resources to access the academic environment that works best for their student," Ledbetter stated. "Children with disabilities may need additional help in order for them to grow academically, whether it be tutoring or other learning materials."

O'Brien emphasized that scholarships are available to students aged between 5 and 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet specific financial criteria.

"These scholarships empower Hoosier parents to find the best educational option for their children," O'Brien remarked. "We want students to thrive, and this funding gives them the best opportunity to do just that."

During the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers supported expanding ESAs to include siblings of students with disabilities, even if those siblings do not have a disability. Students without a disability requiring special education services can receive state tuition support up to $8,000, while those requiring special education services can receive up to $20,000.

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

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State Rep. Cindy Ledbetter (R-Newburgh) represents House District 75,

which includes portions of Gibson, Pike and Warrick counties.

Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

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