STATEHOUSE (July 31, 2024) – Henry County lawmakers encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.
State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) said the program provides monetary scholarships to students with disabilities that can be used toward educational resources to best meet their learning needs. Funds can be used for pre-approved educational programs, therapies, services, tuition and fees, curricular materials, and other expenses related to the student’s education.
"ESAs open opportunities for families seeking alternative educational options that better suit their child's learning needs," Criswell said. "Indiana's dedication to education for all students is evident through this scholarship, and I encourage eligible families to apply."
State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) said scholarships are available to students between the ages of 5 and 22 who reside in Indiana, require special education services and meet certain financial requirements.
"All students can reach their fullest potential when provided with the necessary support," Barrett said. "With these funds, eligible families can seek tutoring, special programs and services that help their child succeed."
According to State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City), scholarship funds are not considered income and do not impact any other financial aid like Medicaid that students may already receive.
"This scholarship helps parents provide the best schooling for their children with disabilities," Prescott said. "I urge eligible families to take advantage of this great opportunity and receive support to access high-quality education resources tailored to their child's needs."
During the 2024 legislative session, lawmakers supported expanding ESAs to the siblings of students who have 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, and students who require special education services support can receive up to $20,000.
Applications for eligible students are available until Sept. 1. For more information, including a list of providers and qualified schools, and to apply, visit in.gov/tos/inesa.
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State Rep. Brad Barrett (R-Richmond) represents House District 56,
which includes portions of Wayne County.
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State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes all of Blackford and Randolph counties,
and portions of Delaware, Henry and Jay counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
