Indy Standard

Jackson County legislators are urging families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account (ESA) before the September 1 deadline.

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

"Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed," Hall stated. "These scholarships give parents the ability to access the specialized tools and services their children need to thrive academically."

State Representative Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) noted that scholarships are available for students aged 5 to 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet certain financial criteria.

"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."

According to State Representative Chris May (R-Bedford), scholarship funds are not considered income and do not affect other financial aid such as Medicaid that students may already receive.

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

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 support can receive up to $20,000.

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