Indy Standard

State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) is urging families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the September 1 deadline.

Borders 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 are applicable for pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other education-related expenses.

"For children with disabilities, having access to the right programs and services can be a gamechanger for them and their future," Borders stated. "These scholarships enable parents to access the specialized resources needed to support their children's individual learning needs."

The scholarships are available to students aged 5 to 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services, and meet specific financial criteria. The scholarship funds are not considered income and do not affect other financial aid such as Medicaid that students may already receive.

During the 2024 legislative session, Borders supported legislation 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.

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

-30-