Some Indianapolis families using private school vouchers could still face bills of over $1,000 to cover remaining tuition costs. The median gap between tuition for private schools within Indianapolis Public Schools borders and the voucher amount is $1,694, according to a Chalkbeat analysis.

Voucher Program Details

The Indiana Choice Scholarship program, which was initially reserved for low-income families, has been expanded to include all families in the state, regardless of income. The program provides up to 90% of the amount the public school district in which the student resides will receive in state tuition support per pupil.

Critics argue that the program has deviated from its original purpose of helping low-income families and now disproportionately benefits wealthier families. Supporters argue that the program gives families more options and the freedom to choose a school that best fits their child.

Private Schools and Vouchers

Private schools in the area have found ways to bridge the gap between the voucher amount and tuition costs. Some schools offer scholarships, sliding-scale tuition rates, or other financial aid to help families cover the remaining costs. For example, Providence Cristo Rey, a private Catholic school, estimates that family contributions will range from $365 to $2,100, with the rest covered through scholarships and corporate work-study funding.

The Oaks Academy, a network of schools, also offers a sliding-scale tuition rate based on household size and local median income. The network relies on funding from Indiana’s tax-credit program to fill in some of the gap left between the voucher and tuition cost.

Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.