BHCS Prepares for Impact of ESAs
Posted on 02/03/2023
With the Students First Act now law in the state of Iowa, families can now choose the education that best meets their child’s needs. The legislation was passed in both the Iowa House and Senate and signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds in late January.
Educational Savings Accounts (ESA's) will be a reality for Iowa families beginning with the 2023-24 school year and beyond. A committee is now working on how ESAs will impact Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, according to President Dr. John Flanery.
"We will maintain our focus on our Catholic identity and mission and continue our focus on our academic and faith-based education we offer today as accredited schools in the state of Iowa," Flanery said. "Over the next few weeks and months, we will learn more about how the ESA program will be implemented. We ask for patience and grace as we learn, implement and communicate about this opportunity for families."
How will ESAs work?
Parents who choose to enroll their children in an accredited nonpublic school will receive $7,598, the amount of
per pupil funds allocated annually by the state. The funds can be used for tuition, fees and other qualified expenses.
All qualified must be Iowa residents. ESAs will be available based on the following eligibility:
Year 1: 2023-2024
- All kindergarten students
- All transfer students from public schools 1st-12th grade
- Currently enrolled BHCS students who are at or below 300% federal poverty level ($83,000 income for family of four)
Year 2: 2024-25
- All kindergarten students
- All transfer students from public schools 1st-12th grade
- Currently enrolled BHCS students who are at or below 400% federal poverty level ($111,000 income for family of four)
Year 3: 2025-26
- All K-12 students who are Iowa residents, regardless of income.
Families will receive updates as the final details are determined and can sign up for notifications at this state of Iowa website:
https://educateiowa.gov/pk-12/education-savings-accounts