Months after Indiana lawmakers relaxed certain rules, two programs providing students with state funding for education outside of their schools saw enrollment spike for the 2024-25 school year, according to Chalkbeat Indiana. The Education Scholarship Account (ESA) and Career Scholarship Account (CSA) programs have each reached maximum enrollment for the first time ahead of their application deadlines.
This surging participation mirrors the growing popularity of Indiana’s private school voucher program. It underscores the state’s willingness to reduce barriers to education choice. Last year, lawmakers relaxed eligibility requirements for the voucher program to include most students in Indiana.
The CSA program, which gives students in grades 10-12 grants of $5,000 for career training with outside employers, saw a 700% spike in participation, from around 200 students in 2023 to 1,900 students in 2024-25.
Students can use the funds for career and technical education, certain apprenticeship programs, or the Indiana College Core provided by an approved organization.
The number of students cleared to participate in the ESA program, which provides money for students with disabilities to access services outside their schools, rose by 55% in the last year.
The ESA program has a waiting list of 599 students with disabilities this year, as well as 31 siblings. To participate, students must meet income eligibility requirements, which are 400% of the Federal Free or Reduced School Meals limit.
Each program had a $10 million allocation. For each allocation, 5% is spent on the administration of the program.
Proponents say the state’s education choice programs provide students and their families with opportunities not otherwise affordable. Critics argue the programs divert money from public schools and frequently lack transparency.
Chalkbeat Indiana
