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Expanding School Choice for Mississippi Families

Imagine a Mississippi where every family, no matter where they live or what they earn, can choose the best educational path for their child. Mississippi is ready to make that possible, and people like you can lead the way!

The Road Ahead:
Ensuring Options for Every Mississippi Family

Private Choice:
INCREASING ACCESS THROUGH FINANCIAL FLEXIBILITY

Imagine a Mississippi where families, like those in Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and nine other states, can have a special account where taxpayer funds, which would otherwise be used for their children in a public school, can be redirected to the educational setting and services that best meet their child’s needs. Known generically as education savings accounts (ESAs), these accounts allow parents to pay for private school tuition, online classes, tutoring, and other specialized services. ESAs would ensure that every child, regardless of income, can attend the school that best fits their needs

Public Choice:
Opening Doors Across District Lines

Imagine being able to send your child to any public school in Mississippi that best suits their learning needs, no matter where you live. Breaking down barriers to quality education means allowing children to attend a school in another district, regardless of zip code.

Charter Choice:
Unlocking Innovative Educational Opportunities

Charter schools are public schools that offer specialized, flexible learning environments and are available tuition-free to all students in certain areas of the state. All areas of the state should be open to the creation of charter schools. With more public charter schools across Mississippi, families could have greater access to unique educational programs, from arts and technology to career-focused curricula and beyond., providing a more tailored approach to education.

All About ESA'S

Mississippi’s Special Needs ESA is helping many students with disabilities, but there are still significant challenges, including a waitlist for families seeking this vital support. Meanwhile, the Universal ESA, which could broaden educational opportunities for all families across the state.

What is an ESA?

K-12 education savings accounts, frequently referred to as “ESAs,” are taxpayer-funded accounts that are used for educational expenses, as directed by a student’s parents. These funds can be used for a range of educational expenses including tuition and fees at private schools, textbooks, tutoring, educational therapies for special needs students, online courses, and other approved educational services. In a few states, ESAs can be used, to a limited extent, for homeschooling costs or transportation.

How Do ESA's Work?

The state deposits a predetermined amount of funding (less than or equal to what the state would have spent on that child’s education in a public school) into an account that allows parents to direct how those education dollars are spent.

Who is eligible for an ESA?

Currently available – Special Needs ESA: Available to students with disabilities who have a documented Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other proof of disability.
Future Possibility – Universal ESA: Expanding eligibility to more families, potentially including those in low-income households or those living in failing school districts. Specific eligibility criteria for the Universal ESA can vary, so parents should check the latest guidelines on the Mississippi Department of Education’s website.

What can ESA funds be used for?

ESA funds can be used for a variety of educational expenses, including:

Tuition at private schools
Special education services and therapies
Tutoring and educational enrichment programs
Curriculum and educational materials
Online courses and educational software

How do I apply for a special needs ESA?

Applications for ESAs are available through the Mississippi Department of Education’s website. Parents need to complete the application form, provide required documentation (e.g., proof of disability for Special Needs ESA), and submit it by the stated deadline. The process may involve an online application or submission of physical documents.