This article is part 2 of the 2-part blog series on the state-funded voucher and scholarship programs offered in Louisiana.
See part 1 here. In part one we discussed: the Louisiana School Choice Law, Louisiana’s 2 school choice programs, how school choice affects students with disabilities, and the future of school choice. If you have not read part 1, I advise you read it first. Here, we will take a closer look at what parents need to know.
A Brief Review
Louisiana families now have more options than ever when deciding where their children go to school. School choice and scholarship programs in Louisiana such as the LA GATOR Program and Louisiana’s Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities give parents different ways to use state funds toward private education. Each program gives families more options about where and how their child learns.
The LA GATOR Scholarship Program, also called The Louisiana Giving All True Opportunity to Rise, is an Education Savings Account (ESA) that gives families more options by covering some of the costs for tuition at private schools, tutoring, homeschool materials, and therapies.
The School Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities provides other opportunities for students with disabilities who are not doing well in their current public school. The program provides tuition assistance that allows students to attend an eligible private school that offers special education services.
The school must have the resources and support available to meet, or exceed, the student’s needs that are identified in the IEP. Parents can get information about the supports and resources available at their school of choice by contacting the school directly and speaking with administration. School websites may also provide information about support and services, but because website updates do not always happen immediately you should also contact administration to confirm accuracy of the information.
It’s important to understand each school choice program, but understanding the application process and how to apply is what makes choice possible.
The Application Process
Applying for school choice programs can feel overwhelming, but with the right information, preparation and organization, the process is easier. The LA GATOR Program and Louisiana School Choice Program for Students with Exceptionalities both have their own application process, but they all require accurate information and documentation. The application process for each program includes submitting an online application by the deadline issued by the Louisiana Department of Education. In addition, all required documentation must be included with the application. Some of the documents required include:
● Proof of income (pay stubs or tax returns)
● Proof of Louisiana residency
● A copy of the student’s current IEP
● Enrollment or report card information from the current school
Applications for both programs usually open at the beginning of March for the upcoming school year. So it is important to monitor the Louisiana Department of Education’s (LDOE’s) website for updates to the application window. Both programs use an online platform where parents can apply, upload documents, and check the application status.
It is very important to write down the login information after creating an account, attach all required documentation, and follow all deadlines. They don’t usually extend the deadlines, so if you miss one, you will have to wait until the next school year. A family can apply for more than one program, but can only get support from one program. For example: A parent who applied to both the Louisiana Scholarship Program and the School Choice Program might get approved for both programs. In that case, the family should review which program provides more support or better fits their child’s specific needs before accepting placement.
After applications have been processed, parents are notified about their child’s eligibility and the final acceptance decision. Program acceptance only qualifies a student for funding. Itdoes not guarantee a spot at a certain school. If a child has been accepted to get funding, parents must contact the private school directly to discuss enrollment requirements and available space.
To increase the chance of being accepted, families should get information about each school’s admission requirements and find out if seats are available ahead of time. It can also be helpful to contact the principal directly to share enrollment interest and let them know you are submitting an application for financial assistance. Taking these steps can help families be better prepared at the start of the process.
To increase chances of acceptance, it is very important to apply as early as possible when the application window opens. Make sure to keep copies of all documents, and communicate with both the LDOE and the schools of your choice.
How Access, Awareness, and Equity Impact School Choice
Even though Louisiana’s school choice options have expanded, not all families have equal access to them. One of the biggest barriers is awareness of program availability and options. Some families do not know these programs exist and others hear about them too late to apply.
Access to program options also depends on where a family lives. Families that live in more rural communities usually have fewer options for approved private schools within an accepted distance from home. Some families do not have reliable transportation, some lack internet access and others do not have the technology needed to complete online applications and upload documentation. For parents with disabilities or limited mobility, visiting schools or attending information sessions can also be difficult.
When families face difficult challenges in accessing school choice programs, it reminds us that true school choice requires more than multiple options. It also requires fair access to necessary information and resources. Schools, local governments, and community groups can play a role in helping families get the information and support they need to apply, have access to more options, and make informed decisions about their child’s education. If you need more help with the process, contact your local Families Helping Families office.
The Potential Future of School Choice
Educational options in Louisiana are evolving quickly. Implementation of the LA GATOR Program and Louisiana School Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities provides a shift toward flexible funding, which allows families to make certain decisions about their child’s education. We do not know the future, but it is possible that programming options could expand, giving families even greater access to private school education.
At the same time, there are more conversations about equity and accountability in private schools. As private schools receive more public funding, parents and educators are asking: How will these schools be held accountable? Will students with disabilities get the same level of support and progress monitoring they receive in public schools? As we look to the future, parents will need clear and reliable information to make informed decisions. The next section answers some of the most common questions families have.
Frequently asked Questions and Answers about Louisiana’s School Choice Programs
Q: Can I apply to more than one program?
Yes, a family can apply to more than one program for the same student, but can only use one at a time. Compare the benefits and supports of each program before deciding which one to accept.
Q: Will my child still receive therapies at a private school?
It depends on the services offered at each individual school. Some private schools provide therapy such as speech therapy and others may require you to arrange it separately. Private schools are not required to provide these services, so it is best to contact the schools and ask specific questions before enrolling.
Q: How can I advocate for the private school to give my child the support they need?
Since private schools are not bound by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), they are not required to write or follow IEPs. This means it’s up to parents to have conversations with the school about their child’s needs for services and support. You should discuss this clearly before you decide to apply for funding to enroll in a private school.
Q: What rights from the IDEA law do we still have if my child is in a private school?
IDEA does not require private schools to provide special education services, accommodations, or funding. The primary obligation of private schools is to cooperate with the local public school district during the Child Find process. This includes identifying, referring, and evaluating students with suspected disabilities. All legal responsibility for IDEA compliance remains with the public school district, not the private school.
Q: What happens if the needs of my child change after enrolling in a private school?
If your child’s needs change after enrollment, you can contact the school to discuss additional support options, reconvene the IEP, or consider re-enrolling in public school.
Q: What if I’m not satisfied with the new school?
If you are not satisfied, schedule a meeting with school administration to discuss your concerns and develop a plan of action. If you are still not satisfied you can withdraw your child from the school.
Q: Can I re-apply in future years?
Yes. Most programs allow families to re-apply or renew annually, depending on eligibility and funding availability.
These common questions show that while Louisiana’s programs provide opportunity, parents still need information and must stay informed and proactive. That leads us to a shared vision of what success should look like for all families.
A Shared Vision of Success
The expansion of Louisiana’s school choice programs have opened new doors for students and families across the state. But we should not measure the success of the programs by how many choices exist. We must determine how accessible and effective those choices are for students with disabilities across the entire state. Families, schools, and state leaders share a responsibility to make sure these programs support long-term growth and inclusion of all students. When parents have the support and information needed, when schools are transparent, and when systems prove to be equitable, children with disabilities can thrive.
As we look ahead, the shared vision is simple: Every student in Louisiana with a disability, regardless of the specific disability, income, or background, deserves to learn in an environment where they can grow, belong, and succeed.
Written by Pamela White, Ed.S