STATEHOUSE (July 19, 2022) – Bartholomew County legislators encourage families of students with disabilities to apply for Indiana's new Education Scholarship Account Program to expand academic opportunities for their children.
The program, established through legislation co-authored by State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus), gives parents more tools to help meet their child's academic needs.
"When trying to find the best way to educate a child, there is not a one-size-fits-all solution," Lauer said. "This program gives parents of children with disabilities more options and resources to find the academic environment that works for their student."
State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) said families can use these tax-free scholarships to pay for pre-approved education services like tutoring, therapy and tuition.
"Families who have children with disabilities can face so many challenges, and finding the right school that fits their needs shouldn't be an obstacle," Lucas said. "ESAs can empower parents to select the best education option for their child, so they have every opportunity to learn and grow."
To be eligible for ESAs, students must have a disability requiring special education services and an individualized education plan, service plan or choice special education plan; choose not to enroll in a public school or receive an Indiana Choice Scholarship; and meet the annual income qualification, which is currently 300% of the qualification for free or reduced lunches. For a household of four, that's $154,012.
Applications for eligible students open June 27 and close Aug. 5. For more information and to apply, visit in.gov/tos/inesa.
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State Rep. Ryan Lauer (R-Columbus) represents House District 59,
which includes portions of Bartholomew County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Seymour) represents House District 69, which includes
portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Jennings and Jefferson counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
