Compare State Programs

Key Learning

See How the States Stack Up

This user-friendly platform is designed to help you navigate the diverse landscape of Education Savings Accounts across different states. This tool offers a comprehensive comparison of ESA programs by state.

Directions

From the list of state programs below, you can choose up to three programs to compare. The results will show you a comprehensive overview of the particular policy features included in the design of the program.

With this tool, you can compare state programs, analyze program features, and make informed decisions.

Image

MISSISSIPPI: Equal Opportunity for Special Needs Program

ESA comparison by state Hits: 86
  • State: MISSISSIPPI
  • PROGRAM OVERVIEW: PROGRAM OVERVIEW
  • Program Name:
    • Option name: Equal Opportunity for Special Needs Program, Option type: Link, Option description:

      The Family Empowerment Scholarship Program is established to provide children of families in this state which have limited financial resources with educational options to achieve success in their education.

      , Option link: https://advance.lexis.com/container/?pdmfid=1000516&crid=767d4af4-db82-4936-a24f-ec5cd54e3804&func=LN.Advance.ContentView.getFullToc&nodeid=AAUAEC&typeofentry=Breadcrumb&config=00JAAzNzhjOTYxNC0wZjRkLTQzNzAtYjJlYS1jNjExZWYxZGFhMGYKAFBvZENhdGFsb2cMlW40w5iIH7toHnTBIEP0&action=publictoc&pddocfullpath=%2fshared%2fdocument%2fstatutes-legislation%2furn%3acontentItem%3a6076-THF3-CH1B-T4SD-00008-00&pdtocfullpath=%2fshared%2ftableofcontents%2furn%3acontentItem%3a8S5T-PM12-D6RV-H00W-00008-00&ecomp=k2vckkk&prid=ad83f619-036c-4886-bca6-0396a0749611
  • Year Launched: 2015
  • Fund Administrator:
    • Option name: Department of Education, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-9. Responsibilities of department [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) The department shall create a standard form that parents of students submit to establish their student’s eligibility for an Education Scholarship Account. The department shall ensure that the application is readily available to interested families through various sources, including the department’s website and the copy of procedural safeguards annually given to parents.
      (2) The department shall provide parents of participating students with a written explanation of the allowable uses of Education Scholarship Accounts, the responsibilities of parents and the duties of the department. This information shall also be made available on the department’s website.
      (3) The department shall annually notify all students with an IEP of the existence of the ESA program and shall ensure that lower-income families are made aware of their potential eligibility.
      (4) The department may deduct an amount up to a limit of six percent (6%) from appropriations used to fund Education Scholarship Accounts to cover the costs of overseeing the funds and administering the ESA program.
      -5
      (a) The department shall make a determination of eligibility, and shall approve the application, within twenty-one (21) business days of receiving an application for participation in the ESA program, subject to the provisions of Section 37-181-3(b).
      (b) The department shall provide for a procedure that children with a ruling of hearing impairment or children suspected of a hearing loss shall receive a comprehensive educational assessment which may include the areas of cognitive development, language/speech, audiological and academic achievement from the state-funded Mississippi Assistance Center for Hearing Loss. Children with a ruling of visual impairment or children suspected of a visual impairment shall receive a comprehensive low vision evaluation from the state-funded Low Vision Clinic.
      (6) The home school district shall provide the parent of a participating student with a complete copy of the student’s school records, while complying with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (20 USCS Section 1232(g)). The record shall be provided no later than thirty (30) days after a parent signs an agreement to participate in the ESA program.
  • Funding Mechanism:
    • Option name: Direct, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (a) The department shall develop a system for payment of benefits, including, but not limited to, allowing educational service providers to invoice the department for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2), or allowing the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application to seek reimbursement for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2).
      (b) The department may make payments to educational service providers or reimbursement to the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application via check or warrant or electronic funds transfer or any other means of payment deemed to be commercially viable or cost-effective.
  • Program Administrator (Gov't):
    • Option name: Department of Education, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (a) The department shall develop a system for payment of benefits, including, but not limited to, allowing educational service providers to invoice the department for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2), or allowing the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application to seek reimbursement for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2).
      (b) The department may make payments to educational service providers or reimbursement to the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application via check or warrant or electronic funds transfer or any other means of payment deemed to be commercially viable or cost-effective.
      (c) The department may also establish by rule that some payments to educational service providers will be made on a quarterly basis, rather than an annual basis, if the educational services will be rendered over an extended period of time.
      (3) The department shall adopt a process for removing educational service providers that defraud parents and for referring cases of fraud to law enforcement.
      (4) The department shall establish or contract for the establishment of an online anonymous fraud reporting service.
      (5) The department shall establish or contract for the establishment of an anonymous telephone hotline for fraud reporting.
  • Third Party Administrator: None
  • Role of DOE:
    • Option name: Program Administrator, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (a) The department shall develop a system for payment of benefits, including, but not limited to, allowing educational service providers to invoice the department for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2), or allowing the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application to seek reimbursement for qualified expenses consistent with Section 37-181-5(2).
      (b) The department may make payments to educational service providers or reimbursement to the parent or guardian who submitted the ESA program application via check or warrant or electronic funds transfer or any other means of payment deemed to be commercially viable or cost-effective.
      (c) The department may also establish by rule that some payments to educational service providers will be made on a quarterly basis, rather than an annual basis, if the educational services will be rendered over an extended period of time.
      (3) The department shall adopt a process for removing educational service providers that defraud parents and for referring cases of fraud to law enforcement.
      (4) The department shall establish or contract for the establishment of an online anonymous fraud reporting service.
      (5) The department shall establish or contract for the establishment of an anonymous telephone hotline for fraud reporting.
  • Application Window/Dates:
    • Option name: Rolling, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (a) The department shall make a determination of eligibility, and shall approve the application, within twenty-one (21) business days of receiving an application for participation in the ESA program, subject to the provisions of Section 37-181-3(b).
  • Fund Disbursement Frequency:
    • Option name: Quarterly, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (c) The department may also establish by rule that some payments to educational service providers will be made on a quarterly basis, rather than an annual basis, if the educational services will be rendered over an extended period of time.
  • Average Per-Pupil Funding:
    • Option name: $7,829, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (1) The ESA program created in this chapter shall be limited to five hundred (500) students in the school year 2015-2016, with new enrollment limited to five hundred (500) additional students each year thereafter. Subject to appropriation from the General Fund, each student’s ESA shall be funded at Six Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($6,500.00) for school year 2015-2016. For each subsequent year, this amount shall increase or decrease by the same proportion as the base student cost under Section 37-151-7(1)(b) is increased or decreased.
  • ELIGIBILITY: ELIGIBILITY
  • Income Limit:
    • Option name: None, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (b) “Eligible student” means any student who has had an active Individualized Education Program (IEP) within the past three (3) years and has maintained eligibility.
  • Prior Year Public School Requirement:
    • Option name: Yes, with exceptions, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (b) “Eligible student” means any student who has had an active Individualized Education Program (IEP) within the past three (3) years and has maintained eligibility.
      (c) “Participating student” means any student who meets the qualifications of an eligible student as defined in paragraph (b) of this section and is participating in an ESA program at an eligible school.
  • Geographic Limit:
    • Option name: Statewide, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (d) “Parent” means a resident of this state who is a parent, legal guardian, custodian or other person with the authority to act on behalf of the eligible student.
  • Additional Eligibility Check:
    • Option name: IEP, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (8) Every three (3) years after initial enrollment in the ESA program, a parent of a participating student, except a student diagnosed as being a person with a permanent disability, shall document that the student continues to be identified by the school district, a federal or state government agency, or a licensed physician or psychometrist as a child with a disability, as defined by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 USCS Section 1401(3)).
  • Homeschool Compatible:
    • Option name: No, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (b) “Eligible student” means any student who has had an active Individualized Education Program (IEP) within the past three (3) years and has maintained eligibility.
  • Enrollment Cap:
    • Option name: 3,500, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      (1) The ESA program created in this chapter shall be limited to five hundred (500) students in the school year 2015-2016, with new enrollment limited to five hundred (500) additional students each year thereafter. Subject to appropriation from the General Fund, each student’s ESA shall be funded at Six Thousand Five Hundred Dollars ($6,500.00) for school year 2015-2016. For each subsequent year, this amount shall increase or decrease by the same proportion as the base student cost under Section 37-151-7(1)(b) is increased or decreased.
  • Lottery:
    • Option name: None, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) After participation reaches fifty percent (50%) of the annual enrollment limits in subsection (1) of this section, the department shall set annual application deadlines for the remaining number of available ESAs and begin to maintain a waiting list of eligible students. The waitlist will be maintained in the chronological order in which applications are received. The department shall award ESA program applications in chronological order according to the waitlist; and
  • Testing:
    • Option name: None, Option type: None, Option description:

      (6) the eligible student will take the statewide summative assessment, as applicable based on the eligible student's grade level, as provided under IC 20-32-5.1, or the assessment specified in the eligible student's:
  • COSTS COVERED INCLUDE: COSTS COVERED INCLUDE:
  • Private School Tuition:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Uniforms:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (i) Requires use of the ESA funds for the
      following qualifying expenses to educate the ESA student:

      (A)   Tuition and fees at a qualified school;

      (B) Tutoring    services   provided   by  an individual or a tutoring facility. The tutoring services shall not be provided by an ESA student's immediate family;

      (C) Services contracted for and provided by
      a public school district, including services provided by a public charter school. Services under this subparagraph may include,   without   limitation,  individual  classes   and
      extracurricular activities and programs;

      (D) Textbooks,     curriculum and other
      instructional materials, including, but not limited to, any supplemental materials or associated online instruction
      required by either a curriculum or an education service
      provider;

      (E) Computer       hardware    or     other
      technological devices that are primarily used to help meet an ESA student's educational needs;

      (F)   Educational software and applications;

      (G)   School uniforms;

      (H) Fees for nationally  standardized
      assessments, advanced placement examinations, examinations related to college or university admission and tuition and
      fees for preparatory courses for the exams;

      (J) Tuition and fees for summer education programs and specialized after school education programs;

      (K) Tuition, fees, instructional materials
      and examination fees at a career or technical school;

      (M) Educational  services   and   therapies including, but not limited to, occupational, behavioral,
      physical, speech-language and audiology therapies;

      (N)   Tuition and fees at an institution of higher education;

      (O) Fees for transportation paid to a
      fee-for-service transportation provider for the student to travel to and from an education service provider;

      (P) Any other educational expense approved
      by the state superintendent.
  • Online Education:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) Program funds awarded to a student with a disability determined eligible pursuant to paragraph (3)(b) may be used for the following purposes:
      1. Instructional materials, including digital devices, digital periphery devices, and assistive technology devices that allow a student to access instruction or instructional content and training on the use of and maintenance agreements for these devices.
      2. Curriculum as defined in subsection (2).
      3. Specialized services by approved providers or by a hospital in this state which are selected by the parent. These specialized services may include, but are not limited to:
      a. Applied behavior analysis services as provided in ss. 627.6686 and 641.31098.
      b. Services provided by speech-language pathologists as defined in s. 468.1125(8).
      c. Occupational therapy as defined in s. 468.203.
      d. Services provided by physical therapists as defined in s. 486.021(8).
      e. Services provided by listening and spoken language specialists and an appropriate acoustical environment for a child who has a hearing impairment, including deafness, and who has received an implant or assistive hearing device.
      4. Tuition and fees associated with full-time or part-time enrollment in a home education program; an eligible private school; an eligible postsecondary educational institution or a program offered by the postsecondary educational institution, unless the program is subject to s. 1009.25 or reimbursed pursuant to s. 1009.30; an approved preapprenticeship program as defined in s. 446.021(5) which is not subject to s. 1009.25 and complies with all applicable requirements of the department pursuant to chapter 1005; a private tutoring program authorized under s. 1002.43; a virtual program offered by a department-approved private online provider that meets the provider qualifications specified in s. 1002.45(2)(a); the Florida Virtual School as a private paying student; or an approved online course offered pursuant to s. 1003.499 or s. 1004.0961.
      5. Fees for nationally standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests, Advanced Placement Examinations, industry certification examinations, assessments related to postsecondary education, or other assessments.
      6. Contributions to the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program pursuant to s. 1009.98 or the Florida College Savings Program pursuant to s. 1009.981 for the benefit of the eligible student.
      7. Contracted services provided by a public school or school district, including classes. A student who receives services under a contract under this paragraph is not considered enrolled in a public school for eligibility purposes as specified in subsection (6) but rather attending a public school on a part-time basis as authorized under s. 1002.44.
      8. Tuition and fees for part-time tutoring services or fees for services provided by a choice navigator. Such services must be provided by a person who holds a valid Florida educator’s certificate pursuant to s. 1012.56, a person who holds an adjunct teaching certificate pursuant to s. 1012.57, a person who has a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree in the subject area in which instruction is given, a person who has demonstrated a mastery of subject area knowledge pursuant to s. 1012.56(5), or a person certified by a nationally or internationally recognized research-based training program as approved by the department. As used in this subparagraph, the term “part-time tutoring services” does not qualify as regular school attendance as defined in s. 1003.01(16)(e).
      9. Fees for specialized summer education programs.
      10. Fees for specialized after-school education programs.
      11. Transition services provided by job coaches.
      12. Fees for an annual evaluation of educational progress by a state-certified teacher under s. 1002.41(1)(f), if this option is chosen for a home education student.
      13. Tuition and fees associated with programs offered by Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.55 and school readiness providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.88.
      14. Fees for services provided at a center that is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
      15. Fees for services provided by a therapist who is certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
  • Education Therapies:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Private Tutoring:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Public School Services (Classes and/or Extracurricular):
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:
      Section 20-51.4-2-9 - [Effective 7/1/2024] "ESA qualified expenses"
      (a) "ESA qualified expenses" refers to the following expenses provided by an ESA participating entity related to the education of an eligible student for which scholarship money in an ESA account may be used:
      (1) Tuition and fees, which includes curricular materials, at a qualified school, public school, or other ESA participating entity.
      (2) Fees for:
      (A) national norm referenced or criterion referenced examinations;
      (B) advanced placement examinations, Cambridge International courses, International Baccalaureate courses, or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations; or
      (C) statewide assessments associated with industry recognized credentials.
      (3) Educational services for an eligible student who is a student with a disability.
      (4) Payments associated with the use of paraprofessional or educational aides.
      (5) Services contracted for and provided by a school corporation, charter school, magnet school, or qualified school, including:
      (A) individual classes;
      (B) extracurricular activities or programs; or
      (C) additional programs, resources, or staffing defined in the student's education plan.
      (6) Occupational therapy for a student with a disability, provided in accordance with the eligible student's individualized education program developed under IC 20-35 or service plan developed under 511 IAC 7-34.
      (7) Subject to IC 20-51.4-4-7, fees for transportation paid to a fee-for-service transportation provider for the eligible student to travel to and from an approved special education service provider.
      (8) Tuition and fees to attend training programs and camps that have a focus on:
      (A) vocational skills;
      (B) academic skills;
      (C) life skills;
      (D) independence; or
      (E) soft job skills that are character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person's relationships with other people.
      (9) Additional services and therapies prescribed by the eligible student's treating physician in accordance with generally accepted standards of care to improve outcomes for the student in addition to any services currently being provided by the school, insurance, or the Medicaid program.
      (10) Fees for the management of the ESA account, as described in IC 20-51.4-3-2(d).
      (11) Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, and programs of study designated and approved under IC 20-51.4-4.5-6 if the eligible student has enrolled in the CSA program.
      (b) This subsection does not apply to subsection (a)(3), (a)(6), (a)(7), or (a)(8). The term includes only services that are provided in person. The term does not include any virtual or distance learning services.
      IC 20-51.4-2-9
      Amended by P.L. 127-2024,SEC. 4, eff. 7/1/2024.Amended by P.L. 202-2023,SEC. 38, eff. 7/1/2023.Added by P.L. 165-2021,SEC. 180, eff. 7/1/2021.This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
  • Transportation:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:
      Section 20-51.4-2-9 - [Effective 7/1/2024] "ESA qualified expenses"
      (a) "ESA qualified expenses" refers to the following expenses provided by an ESA participating entity related to the education of an eligible student for which scholarship money in an ESA account may be used:
      (1) Tuition and fees, which includes curricular materials, at a qualified school, public school, or other ESA participating entity.
      (2) Fees for:
      (A) national norm referenced or criterion referenced examinations;
      (B) advanced placement examinations, Cambridge International courses, International Baccalaureate courses, or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations; or
      (C) statewide assessments associated with industry recognized credentials.
      (3) Educational services for an eligible student who is a student with a disability.
      (4) Payments associated with the use of paraprofessional or educational aides.
      (5) Services contracted for and provided by a school corporation, charter school, magnet school, or qualified school, including:
      (A) individual classes;
      (B) extracurricular activities or programs; or
      (C) additional programs, resources, or staffing defined in the student's education plan.
      (6) Occupational therapy for a student with a disability, provided in accordance with the eligible student's individualized education program developed under IC 20-35 or service plan developed under 511 IAC 7-34.
      (7) Subject to IC 20-51.4-4-7, fees for transportation paid to a fee-for-service transportation provider for the eligible student to travel to and from an approved special education service provider.
      (8) Tuition and fees to attend training programs and camps that have a focus on:
      (A) vocational skills;
      (B) academic skills;
      (C) life skills;
      (D) independence; or
      (E) soft job skills that are character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person's relationships with other people.
      (9) Additional services and therapies prescribed by the eligible student's treating physician in accordance with generally accepted standards of care to improve outcomes for the student in addition to any services currently being provided by the school, insurance, or the Medicaid program.
      (10) Fees for the management of the ESA account, as described in IC 20-51.4-3-2(d).
      (11) Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, and programs of study designated and approved under IC 20-51.4-4.5-6 if the eligible student has enrolled in the CSA program.
      (b) This subsection does not apply to subsection (a)(3), (a)(6), (a)(7), or (a)(8). The term includes only services that are provided in person. The term does not include any virtual or distance learning services.
      IC 20-51.4-2-9
      Amended by P.L. 127-2024,SEC. 4, eff. 7/1/2024.Amended by P.L. 202-2023,SEC. 38, eff. 7/1/2023.Added by P.L. 165-2021,SEC. 180, eff. 7/1/2021.This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
  • ESA Management Fees:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:
      Section 20-51.4-2-9 - [Effective 7/1/2024] "ESA qualified expenses"
      (a) "ESA qualified expenses" refers to the following expenses provided by an ESA participating entity related to the education of an eligible student for which scholarship money in an ESA account may be used:
      (1) Tuition and fees, which includes curricular materials, at a qualified school, public school, or other ESA participating entity.
      (2) Fees for:
      (A) national norm referenced or criterion referenced examinations;
      (B) advanced placement examinations, Cambridge International courses, International Baccalaureate courses, or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations; or
      (C) statewide assessments associated with industry recognized credentials.
      (3) Educational services for an eligible student who is a student with a disability.
      (4) Payments associated with the use of paraprofessional or educational aides.
      (5) Services contracted for and provided by a school corporation, charter school, magnet school, or qualified school, including:
      (A) individual classes;
      (B) extracurricular activities or programs; or
      (C) additional programs, resources, or staffing defined in the student's education plan.
      (6) Occupational therapy for a student with a disability, provided in accordance with the eligible student's individualized education program developed under IC 20-35 or service plan developed under 511 IAC 7-34.
      (7) Subject to IC 20-51.4-4-7, fees for transportation paid to a fee-for-service transportation provider for the eligible student to travel to and from an approved special education service provider.
      (8) Tuition and fees to attend training programs and camps that have a focus on:
      (A) vocational skills;
      (B) academic skills;
      (C) life skills;
      (D) independence; or
      (E) soft job skills that are character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person's relationships with other people.
      (9) Additional services and therapies prescribed by the eligible student's treating physician in accordance with generally accepted standards of care to improve outcomes for the student in addition to any services currently being provided by the school, insurance, or the Medicaid program.
      (10) Fees for the management of the ESA account, as described in IC 20-51.4-3-2(d).
      (11) Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, and programs of study designated and approved under IC 20-51.4-4.5-6 if the eligible student has enrolled in the CSA program.
      (b) This subsection does not apply to subsection (a)(3), (a)(6), (a)(7), or (a)(8). The term includes only services that are provided in person. The term does not include any virtual or distance learning services.
      IC 20-51.4-2-9
      Amended by P.L. 127-2024,SEC. 4, eff. 7/1/2024.Amended by P.L. 202-2023,SEC. 38, eff. 7/1/2023.Added by P.L. 165-2021,SEC. 180, eff. 7/1/2021.This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
  • Fees for Choice Navigator:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) Program funds awarded to a student with a disability determined eligible pursuant to paragraph (3)(b) may be used for the following purposes:
      1. Instructional materials, including digital devices, digital periphery devices, and assistive technology devices that allow a student to access instruction or instructional content and training on the use of and maintenance agreements for these devices.
      2. Curriculum as defined in subsection (2).
      3. Specialized services by approved providers or by a hospital in this state which are selected by the parent. These specialized services may include, but are not limited to:
      a. Applied behavior analysis services as provided in ss. 627.6686 and 641.31098.
      b. Services provided by speech-language pathologists as defined in s. 468.1125(8).
      c. Occupational therapy as defined in s. 468.203.
      d. Services provided by physical therapists as defined in s. 486.021(8).
      e. Services provided by listening and spoken language specialists and an appropriate acoustical environment for a child who has a hearing impairment, including deafness, and who has received an implant or assistive hearing device.
      4. Tuition and fees associated with full-time or part-time enrollment in a home education program; an eligible private school; an eligible postsecondary educational institution or a program offered by the postsecondary educational institution, unless the program is subject to s. 1009.25 or reimbursed pursuant to s. 1009.30; an approved preapprenticeship program as defined in s. 446.021(5) which is not subject to s. 1009.25 and complies with all applicable requirements of the department pursuant to chapter 1005; a private tutoring program authorized under s. 1002.43; a virtual program offered by a department-approved private online provider that meets the provider qualifications specified in s. 1002.45(2)(a); the Florida Virtual School as a private paying student; or an approved online course offered pursuant to s. 1003.499 or s. 1004.0961.
      5. Fees for nationally standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests, Advanced Placement Examinations, industry certification examinations, assessments related to postsecondary education, or other assessments.
      6. Contributions to the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program pursuant to s. 1009.98 or the Florida College Savings Program pursuant to s. 1009.981 for the benefit of the eligible student.
      7. Contracted services provided by a public school or school district, including classes. A student who receives services under a contract under this paragraph is not considered enrolled in a public school for eligibility purposes as specified in subsection (6) but rather attending a public school on a part-time basis as authorized under s. 1002.44.
      8. Tuition and fees for part-time tutoring services or fees for services provided by a choice navigator. Such services must be provided by a person who holds a valid Florida educator’s certificate pursuant to s. 1012.56, a person who holds an adjunct teaching certificate pursuant to s. 1012.57, a person who has a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree in the subject area in which instruction is given, a person who has demonstrated a mastery of subject area knowledge pursuant to s. 1012.56(5), or a person certified by a nationally or internationally recognized research-based training program as approved by the department. As used in this subparagraph, the term “part-time tutoring services” does not qualify as regular school attendance as defined in s. 1003.01(16)(e).
      9. Fees for specialized summer education programs.
      10. Fees for specialized after-school education programs.
      11. Transition services provided by job coaches.
      12. Fees for an annual evaluation of educational progress by a state-certified teacher under s. 1002.41(1)(f), if this option is chosen for a home education student.
      13. Tuition and fees associated with programs offered by Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.55 and school readiness providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.88.
      14. Fees for services provided at a center that is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
      15. Fees for services provided by a therapist who is certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
  • Textbooks:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Curricula and Supplementary Materials:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Computers/Technology:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Testing Fees:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • Summer/Afterschool learning (not daycare):
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) Program funds awarded to a student with a disability determined eligible pursuant to paragraph (3)(b) may be used for the following purposes:
      1. Instructional materials, including digital devices, digital periphery devices, and assistive technology devices that allow a student to access instruction or instructional content and training on the use of and maintenance agreements for these devices.
      2. Curriculum as defined in subsection (2).
      3. Specialized services by approved providers or by a hospital in this state which are selected by the parent. These specialized services may include, but are not limited to:
      a. Applied behavior analysis services as provided in ss. 627.6686 and 641.31098.
      b. Services provided by speech-language pathologists as defined in s. 468.1125(8).
      c. Occupational therapy as defined in s. 468.203.
      d. Services provided by physical therapists as defined in s. 486.021(8).
      e. Services provided by listening and spoken language specialists and an appropriate acoustical environment for a child who has a hearing impairment, including deafness, and who has received an implant or assistive hearing device.
      4. Tuition and fees associated with full-time or part-time enrollment in a home education program; an eligible private school; an eligible postsecondary educational institution or a program offered by the postsecondary educational institution, unless the program is subject to s. 1009.25 or reimbursed pursuant to s. 1009.30; an approved preapprenticeship program as defined in s. 446.021(5) which is not subject to s. 1009.25 and complies with all applicable requirements of the department pursuant to chapter 1005; a private tutoring program authorized under s. 1002.43; a virtual program offered by a department-approved private online provider that meets the provider qualifications specified in s. 1002.45(2)(a); the Florida Virtual School as a private paying student; or an approved online course offered pursuant to s. 1003.499 or s. 1004.0961.
      5. Fees for nationally standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests, Advanced Placement Examinations, industry certification examinations, assessments related to postsecondary education, or other assessments.
      6. Contributions to the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program pursuant to s. 1009.98 or the Florida College Savings Program pursuant to s. 1009.981 for the benefit of the eligible student.
      7. Contracted services provided by a public school or school district, including classes. A student who receives services under a contract under this paragraph is not considered enrolled in a public school for eligibility purposes as specified in subsection (6) but rather attending a public school on a part-time basis as authorized under s. 1002.44.
      8. Tuition and fees for part-time tutoring services or fees for services provided by a choice navigator. Such services must be provided by a person who holds a valid Florida educator’s certificate pursuant to s. 1012.56, a person who holds an adjunct teaching certificate pursuant to s. 1012.57, a person who has a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree in the subject area in which instruction is given, a person who has demonstrated a mastery of subject area knowledge pursuant to s. 1012.56(5), or a person certified by a nationally or internationally recognized research-based training program as approved by the department. As used in this subparagraph, the term “part-time tutoring services” does not qualify as regular school attendance as defined in s. 1003.01(16)(e).
      9. Fees for specialized summer education programs.
      10. Fees for specialized after-school education programs.
      11. Transition services provided by job coaches.
      12. Fees for an annual evaluation of educational progress by a state-certified teacher under s. 1002.41(1)(f), if this option is chosen for a home education student.
      13. Tuition and fees associated with programs offered by Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.55 and school readiness providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.88.
      14. Fees for services provided at a center that is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
      15. Fees for services provided by a therapist who is certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
  • College Savings Plan:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) Program funds awarded to a student with a disability determined eligible pursuant to paragraph (3)(b) may be used for the following purposes:
      1. Instructional materials, including digital devices, digital periphery devices, and assistive technology devices that allow a student to access instruction or instructional content and training on the use of and maintenance agreements for these devices.
      2. Curriculum as defined in subsection (2).
      3. Specialized services by approved providers or by a hospital in this state which are selected by the parent. These specialized services may include, but are not limited to:
      a. Applied behavior analysis services as provided in ss. 627.6686 and 641.31098.
      b. Services provided by speech-language pathologists as defined in s. 468.1125(8).
      c. Occupational therapy as defined in s. 468.203.
      d. Services provided by physical therapists as defined in s. 486.021(8).
      e. Services provided by listening and spoken language specialists and an appropriate acoustical environment for a child who has a hearing impairment, including deafness, and who has received an implant or assistive hearing device.
      4. Tuition and fees associated with full-time or part-time enrollment in a home education program; an eligible private school; an eligible postsecondary educational institution or a program offered by the postsecondary educational institution, unless the program is subject to s. 1009.25 or reimbursed pursuant to s. 1009.30; an approved preapprenticeship program as defined in s. 446.021(5) which is not subject to s. 1009.25 and complies with all applicable requirements of the department pursuant to chapter 1005; a private tutoring program authorized under s. 1002.43; a virtual program offered by a department-approved private online provider that meets the provider qualifications specified in s. 1002.45(2)(a); the Florida Virtual School as a private paying student; or an approved online course offered pursuant to s. 1003.499 or s. 1004.0961.
      5. Fees for nationally standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests, Advanced Placement Examinations, industry certification examinations, assessments related to postsecondary education, or other assessments.
      6. Contributions to the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program pursuant to s. 1009.98 or the Florida College Savings Program pursuant to s. 1009.981 for the benefit of the eligible student.
      7. Contracted services provided by a public school or school district, including classes. A student who receives services under a contract under this paragraph is not considered enrolled in a public school for eligibility purposes as specified in subsection (6) but rather attending a public school on a part-time basis as authorized under s. 1002.44.
      8. Tuition and fees for part-time tutoring services or fees for services provided by a choice navigator. Such services must be provided by a person who holds a valid Florida educator’s certificate pursuant to s. 1012.56, a person who holds an adjunct teaching certificate pursuant to s. 1012.57, a person who has a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree in the subject area in which instruction is given, a person who has demonstrated a mastery of subject area knowledge pursuant to s. 1012.56(5), or a person certified by a nationally or internationally recognized research-based training program as approved by the department. As used in this subparagraph, the term “part-time tutoring services” does not qualify as regular school attendance as defined in s. 1003.01(16)(e).
      9. Fees for specialized summer education programs.
      10. Fees for specialized after-school education programs.
      11. Transition services provided by job coaches.
      12. Fees for an annual evaluation of educational progress by a state-certified teacher under s. 1002.41(1)(f), if this option is chosen for a home education student.
      13. Tuition and fees associated with programs offered by Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.55 and school readiness providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.88.
      14. Fees for services provided at a center that is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
      15. Fees for services provided by a therapist who is certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
  • College Tuition/Fees:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:

      § 37-181-5. Parental obligations to qualify eligible student for program participation; use of Education Scholarship Account funds [Repealed effective July 1, 2024].
      (1) An eligible student shall qualify to participate in the ESA program if the parent signs an agreement promising:
      (a) To provide an organized, appropriate educational program with measurable annual goals to their participating student and to provide an education for the participating student in at least the subjects of reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies and science;
      (b) To document their participating student’s disability at intervals and in a manner required under subsection (8) of this section;
      (c) Not to enroll their participating student in a public school and to acknowledge as part of the agreement that the eligible school has provided clear notice to the parent that the participating student has no individual entitlement to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) from their home school district, including special education and related services, for as long as the student is participating in the ESA program;
      (d) Not to file for their participating student a certificate of enrollment indicating participation in a home instruction program under Section 37-13-91, Mississippi Code of 1972; and
      (e) Not to participate in the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program or the Mississippi Speech-Language Therapy Scholarship for Students with Speech-Language Impairments Program while participating in the ESA program.
      (2) Parents shall use the funds deposited in a participating student’s ESA for any of the following qualifying expenses, which shall be incurred within the awarded ESA school year, to educate the student using any of the below methods or combination of methods that meet the requirement in subsection (1)(a) of this section:
      (a) Tuition and/or academic fees at an eligible school;
      (b) Textbooks related to academic coursework;
      (c) Payment to a tutor, as defined in Section 37-181-3(h);
      (d) Payment for purchase of curriculum, including any supplemental materials required by the curriculum;
      (e) Fees for nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement tests, including alternate assessments; and fees for Advanced Placement examinations or similar courses and any examinations related to college or university admission;
      (f) Educational services or therapies from a licensed or certified practitioner or provider, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (g) Tuition and fees related to dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution;
      (h) Textbooks related to academic coursework at a postsecondary institution;
      (i) Surety bond payments if required by the department;
      (j) No more than Fifty Dollars ($50.00) in annual consumable school supplies necessary for educational services and therapies, daily classroom activities, and tutoring;
      (k) Computer hardware and software and other technological devices if an eligible school, licensed or certified tutor, licensed or certified educational service practitioner or provider, or licensed medical professional verifies in writing that these items are essential for the student to meet annual, measurable educational and academic goals or goals within the scope of the eligible student’s IEP. Once a student is no longer participating in the ESA program, computer hardware and software and other technological devices purchased with ESA funds shall be donated to a public school or public library. Qualifying expenses for computer hardware and software include only those expenses incurred within the awarded ESA school year.
      (3) Neither a participating student, nor anyone on the student’s behalf, may receive cash or cash-equivalent items, such as gift cards or store credit, from any refunds or rebates from any provider of services or products in the ESA program. Any refunds or rebates shall be credited directly to the participating student’s ESA. The funds in an ESA may only be used for education-related purposes as defined in this chapter.
  • College Textbooks:
    • Option name: Yes, Option type: Popup, Option description:
      20-7-1704. Use of Montana special needs equal opportunity education savings account -- allowable educational resources. (1) The superintendent of public instruction shall allow money deposited in the Montana special needs equal opportunity education savings account to be used to reimburse parents for the purchase of the following educational resources only for the benefit of the individual for whom the account was created:
      (a) qualified school tuition, fees, textbooks, software, or other instructional materials or services;
      (b) an educational program or course using electronic or offsite delivery methods, including but not limited to tutoring, distance learning programs, online programs, and technology delivered learning programs;
      (c) curriculum, including supplemental materials necessary for the curriculum;
      (d) tutoring;
      (e) educational therapies or services, including but not limited to occupational, behavioral, physical, speech-language, and audiology therapies from licensed or certified practitioners or providers, including licensed or certified paraprofessionals or educational aides;
      (f) state or nationally recognized assessment tests, advanced placement exams, entrance examinations at an eligible postsecondary institution, or other assessment instruments;
      (g) services provided by a public school in the state, including individual classes and extracurricular activities;
      (h) eligible postsecondary institution tuition, books, online courses, or other fees;
      (i) no more than $50 annually in consumable education supplies, such as paper, pens, and markers;
      (j) transportation required for another allowable educational service;
      (k) fees paid to a cooperative educational program; and
      (l) any other educational expense approved by the superintendent of public instruction.
      (2) Account funds may not be refunded, rebated, or shared with a parent or participating student in any manner.
      (3) A parent may pay for educational services or costs not covered by account funds.
      (4) Nothing in this part may be construed to require that a qualified student must be enrolled, full-time or part-time, in either a private school or nonpublic online school.
  • CTE / Industry Credentials:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (b) Program funds awarded to a student with a disability determined eligible pursuant to paragraph (3)(b) may be used for the following purposes:
      1. Instructional materials, including digital devices, digital periphery devices, and assistive technology devices that allow a student to access instruction or instructional content and training on the use of and maintenance agreements for these devices.
      2. Curriculum as defined in subsection (2).
      3. Specialized services by approved providers or by a hospital in this state which are selected by the parent. These specialized services may include, but are not limited to:
      a. Applied behavior analysis services as provided in ss. 627.6686 and 641.31098.
      b. Services provided by speech-language pathologists as defined in s. 468.1125(8).
      c. Occupational therapy as defined in s. 468.203.
      d. Services provided by physical therapists as defined in s. 486.021(8).
      e. Services provided by listening and spoken language specialists and an appropriate acoustical environment for a child who has a hearing impairment, including deafness, and who has received an implant or assistive hearing device.
      4. Tuition and fees associated with full-time or part-time enrollment in a home education program; an eligible private school; an eligible postsecondary educational institution or a program offered by the postsecondary educational institution, unless the program is subject to s. 1009.25 or reimbursed pursuant to s. 1009.30; an approved preapprenticeship program as defined in s. 446.021(5) which is not subject to s. 1009.25 and complies with all applicable requirements of the department pursuant to chapter 1005; a private tutoring program authorized under s. 1002.43; a virtual program offered by a department-approved private online provider that meets the provider qualifications specified in s. 1002.45(2)(a); the Florida Virtual School as a private paying student; or an approved online course offered pursuant to s. 1003.499 or s. 1004.0961.
      5. Fees for nationally standardized, norm-referenced achievement tests, Advanced Placement Examinations, industry certification examinations, assessments related to postsecondary education, or other assessments.
      6. Contributions to the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program pursuant to s. 1009.98 or the Florida College Savings Program pursuant to s. 1009.981 for the benefit of the eligible student.
      7. Contracted services provided by a public school or school district, including classes. A student who receives services under a contract under this paragraph is not considered enrolled in a public school for eligibility purposes as specified in subsection (6) but rather attending a public school on a part-time basis as authorized under s. 1002.44.
      8. Tuition and fees for part-time tutoring services or fees for services provided by a choice navigator. Such services must be provided by a person who holds a valid Florida educator’s certificate pursuant to s. 1012.56, a person who holds an adjunct teaching certificate pursuant to s. 1012.57, a person who has a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree in the subject area in which instruction is given, a person who has demonstrated a mastery of subject area knowledge pursuant to s. 1012.56(5), or a person certified by a nationally or internationally recognized research-based training program as approved by the department. As used in this subparagraph, the term “part-time tutoring services” does not qualify as regular school attendance as defined in s. 1003.01(16)(e).
      9. Fees for specialized summer education programs.
      10. Fees for specialized after-school education programs.
      11. Transition services provided by job coaches.
      12. Fees for an annual evaluation of educational progress by a state-certified teacher under s. 1002.41(1)(f), if this option is chosen for a home education student.
      13. Tuition and fees associated with programs offered by Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.55 and school readiness providers approved pursuant to s. 1002.88.
      14. Fees for services provided at a center that is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International.
      15. Fees for services provided by a therapist who is certified by the Certification Board for Music Therapists or credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Inc.
  • Insurance Premiums / Surety Bonds:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:
      Section 20-51.4-2-9 - [Effective 7/1/2024] "ESA qualified expenses"
      (a) "ESA qualified expenses" refers to the following expenses provided by an ESA participating entity related to the education of an eligible student for which scholarship money in an ESA account may be used:
      (1) Tuition and fees, which includes curricular materials, at a qualified school, public school, or other ESA participating entity.
      (2) Fees for:
      (A) national norm referenced or criterion referenced examinations;
      (B) advanced placement examinations, Cambridge International courses, International Baccalaureate courses, or College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations; or
      (C) statewide assessments associated with industry recognized credentials.
      (3) Educational services for an eligible student who is a student with a disability.
      (4) Payments associated with the use of paraprofessional or educational aides.
      (5) Services contracted for and provided by a school corporation, charter school, magnet school, or qualified school, including:
      (A) individual classes;
      (B) extracurricular activities or programs; or
      (C) additional programs, resources, or staffing defined in the student's education plan.
      (6) Occupational therapy for a student with a disability, provided in accordance with the eligible student's individualized education program developed under IC 20-35 or service plan developed under 511 IAC 7-34.
      (7) Subject to IC 20-51.4-4-7, fees for transportation paid to a fee-for-service transportation provider for the eligible student to travel to and from an approved special education service provider.
      (8) Tuition and fees to attend training programs and camps that have a focus on:
      (A) vocational skills;
      (B) academic skills;
      (C) life skills;
      (D) independence; or
      (E) soft job skills that are character traits and interpersonal skills that characterize a person's relationships with other people.
      (9) Additional services and therapies prescribed by the eligible student's treating physician in accordance with generally accepted standards of care to improve outcomes for the student in addition to any services currently being provided by the school, insurance, or the Medicaid program.
      (10) Fees for the management of the ESA account, as described in IC 20-51.4-3-2(d).
      (11) Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, and programs of study designated and approved under IC 20-51.4-4.5-6 if the eligible student has enrolled in the CSA program.
      (b) This subsection does not apply to subsection (a)(3), (a)(6), (a)(7), or (a)(8). The term includes only services that are provided in person. The term does not include any virtual or distance learning services.
      IC 20-51.4-2-9
      Amended by P.L. 127-2024,SEC. 4, eff. 7/1/2024.Amended by P.L. 202-2023,SEC. 38, eff. 7/1/2023.Added by P.L. 165-2021,SEC. 180, eff. 7/1/2021.This section is set out more than once due to postponed, multiple, or conflicting amendments.
  • Other Approved by Admin:
    • Option name: No, Option type: None, Option description:

      (i) Requires use of the ESA funds for the
      following qualifying expenses to educate the ESA student:

      (A)   Tuition and fees at a qualified school;

      (B) Tutoring    services   provided   by  an individual or a tutoring facility. The tutoring services shall not be provided by an ESA student's immediate family;

      (C) Services contracted for and provided by
      a public school district, including services provided by a public charter school. Services under this subparagraph may include,   without   limitation,  individual  classes   and
      extracurricular activities and programs;

      (D) Textbooks,     curriculum and other
      instructional materials, including, but not limited to, any supplemental materials or associated online instruction
      required by either a curriculum or an education service
      provider;

      (E) Computer       hardware    or     other
      technological devices that are primarily used to help meet an ESA student's educational needs;

      (F)   Educational software and applications;

      (G)   School uniforms;

      (H) Fees for nationally  standardized
      assessments, advanced placement examinations, examinations related to college or university admission and tuition and
      fees for preparatory courses for the exams;

      (J) Tuition and fees for summer education programs and specialized after school education programs;

      (K) Tuition, fees, instructional materials
      and examination fees at a career or technical school;

      (M) Educational  services   and   therapies including, but not limited to, occupational, behavioral,
      physical, speech-language and audiology therapies;

      (N)   Tuition and fees at an institution of higher education;

      (O) Fees for transportation paid to a
      fee-for-service transportation provider for the student to travel to and from an education service provider;

      (P) Any other educational expense approved
      by the state superintendent.