New scholarship accounts empower parents, children with disabilities

State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) encourages 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 supported by Baird, gives parents more tools to help meet their child's academic needs.

"Students with special needs often require extra support to ensure their success in school," Baird said. "These scholarships can help families access resources so they have the academic setting that works best for them."

Families can use these tax-free scholarships to pay for pre-approved education services like tutoring, therapy and tuition. Baird said participating families get 90% of their child's state education funding, plus all special-education money, through these education accounts. Funds do not count as income for families of recipients and have no impact on other financial aid they may receive.

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 are open through Aug. 5. For more information and to apply, visit in.gov/tos/inesa.