Indy Standard

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

State Representative Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) highlighted 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 cover pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees at private schools, curricular materials, and other related expenses.

"Providing tailored educational opportunities is essential for students with disabilities," said Davis, a member of the House Education Committee. "ESAs give families the freedom to choose the best educational setting and support for their children, ensuring they receive a high-quality education."

State Representative Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) noted that scholarships are available to Indiana residents aged 5 to 22 who require special education services and meet specific financial criteria.

"Every child has unique educational needs, especially those with disabilities," Mayfield said. "These scholarships empower parents to find the resources that best fit their child's individual learning journey."

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

"Parents of children with disabilities can face numerous hurdles when it comes to finding the right educational options," Haggard said. "With these scholarships, we are providing additional funding to help these families access more supportive and effective learning environments for their children."

State Representative Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) mentioned that 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 can receive up to $20,000.

"ESAs can be transformational for these families, helping to remove some of the stress in paying for these resources and leading to a better experience for their students," Greene said. "I encourage any eligible parents to utilize this scholarship to find the best educational option that meets their unique needs."

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.