The program, overseen by New York-based company Odyssey, will assess eligibility based on Iowa income tax returns.
Starting next Wednesday, low-income parents in Iowa can begin applying for state-funded accounts aimed at covering private school expenses for their children
If a parent has not filed a tax return, alternative evidence of income, such as recent pay stubs and employer letters confirming annual income, will be requested. Earlier this spring, the governor and a majority of Republicans in the legislature approved an allocation of approximately $7,600 for low-income parents who choose to enroll their child in a private K-12 school.
Odyssey, the program administrator, will initially make tuition payments directly to the chosen private schools. Any remaining funds must be utilized for approved expenses, including books, software, or tutoring available through Odyssey’s website.
The company has been conducting online workshops throughout the week
Another session is scheduled for tomorrow, and a Spanish-language workshop will be held on Tuesday. Today’s workshop, starting at noon, will also be conducted in Spanish. Applications for the state-funded Education Savings Accounts must be submitted online.
In its inaugural year, the program permits the use of funds for private school students from households with an income at or below 300% of the federal poverty line, which equates to approximately $90,000 for a family of four. After three years, all parents, regardless of income, will be eligible to seek state funding for private school expenses. However, it should be noted that private schools are not obligated to accept students under this program.