The maximum scholarship amount awarded is equal to 97.5 percent of the per-pupil cost, with that figure based on the school district's own determination of disability category and grade level.
However, the scholarship can be less if private school tuition is lower. Guess what? In fiscal year 2012, parents qualified for $1,095,805 in scholarships, but only $969,166 was needed. That extra $126,639 stayed with the schools for other students' needs.
Under this program, families of children with special needs feel better served, public schools are getting an indirect funding increase and taxpayer dollars are being maximized. The only losers here are zealous school administrators who refuse to put the needs of some children ahead of their desire to control state funds.
