STATEHOUSE (Aug. 19, 2024) – Johnson County lawmakers encourage families with students who have disabilities to apply for Indiana's Education Scholarship Account before the Sept. 1 deadline.
State Rep. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) 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 at private schools, curricular materials, and other expenses related to the student’s education.
"Providing tailored educational opportunities is essential for students with disabilities," said Davis, a member of the House Education Committee. "ESA's give families the freedom to choose the best educational setting and support for their children, ensuring they receive a high-quality education."
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) 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.
"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 Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville), scholarship funds are not considered income and do not impact any other financial aid like 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 Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) said 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.
"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 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. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
