Indy Standard

State Reps. Matt Lehman (R-Berne) and J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) are encouraging families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.

Lehman explained that the program provides monetary scholarships to students with disabilities, which can be used toward educational resources tailored to their learning needs. Funds can be allocated for pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other related expenses.

"Hoosier students deserve every opportunity that we can provide in order for them to be successful in the classroom," Lehman said. "These scholarships give parents financial help so that they can get their child into the right learning program that fits their specific needs."

Prescott noted that scholarships are available to students between the ages of 5 and 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet certain financial requirements.

"This scholarship helps parents provide the best schooling for their children with disabilities," Prescott said. "I urge eligible families to take advantage of this great opportunity and receive support to access high-quality education resources tailored to their child's needs."

Scholarship funds are not considered income and do not impact any other financial aid like Medicaid that students may already receive.

During the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers supported expanding ESAs to include siblings of students who have 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 who require special education services support 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 Lehman (R-Berne) represents House District 79,

which includes all of Adams County and portions of Jay and Wells counties.

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