Indy Standard

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

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

"Some students with disabilities require additional help with education such as tutoring or supplemental materials," Hostettler stated. "These scholarships help cover those expenses for families so their children can stay on target academically. The scholarships open doors for families to find the right school or help for their children."

Ledbetter noted that the scholarships are available to students aged 5 to 22 who live in Indiana, need special education services, and meet specific financial criteria.

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

In the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers approved an expansion of 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 available until Sept. 1. For more information, including a list of providers and qualified schools, and to apply, visit in.gov/tos/inesa.

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State Rep. Matt Hostettler (R-Patoka) represents House District 64,

which includes portions of Gibson, Knox and Vanderburgh counties.

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