Indy Standard

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

State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) highlighted that the program provides monetary scholarships to students with disabilities, which can be used toward educational resources tailored to their learning needs. The funds can cover pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other education-related expenses.

"Education Scholarship Accounts give parents of children with disabilities access to the resources they need for their student to succeed without having such a significant financial burden," Bartels said. "These children deserve the ability to thrive in the academic setting that works best for them."

State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) noted that scholarships are available to students aged 5 to 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet certain financial requirements.

"It is imperative that we give our children every opportunity to succeed," Engleman said. "Education Scholarship Accounts give parents of children with disabilities more options and resources to find the perfect setting that fits their student's needs."

According to State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour), scholarship funds are not considered income and do not impact any other financial aid like Medicaid that students may already receive.

"Families who care for children with a disability face many challenges, but providing a positive educational experience shouldn't be one of them," Lucas said. "ESAs help Hoosier students with unique needs succeed while also relieving some of the financial burden for their parents."

State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) mentioned 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.

"Students with disabilities may require additional help such as tutoring or supplemental learning materials," May said. "It's important that these families can acquire the resources that will help their children achieve academic success."

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