Indy Standard

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

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

"Families who have students with disabilities can face so many obstacles when it comes to their education," Olthoff stated. "That is why Indiana invests in programs like ESAs to support parents and give these students more opportunities and resources to excel in their learning."

State Representative Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) noted that scholarships are available for students aged 5 to 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet specific financial criteria.

"Not all students learn in the same way, and challenges are often much greater for children with disabilities and their families," Aylesworth said. "Education Scholarship Accounts can help with the cost of supplemental materials and tutors that can keep a student on track inside and outside the classroom."

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

"Students with disabilities deserve to have educational options that allow them to grow and thrive," Soliday remarked. "With ESAs, families can get help covering the cost of tutoring, therapies, and other resources, which could make all the difference for their student."

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.

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