State Board of Education Unveils Game-Changing ESA Parent Handbook

By Ethan Faverino |

The Arizona State Board of Education has officially adopted an updated version of the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Parent Handbook for the 2025-2026 school year. This decision came after an 8-1 vote on June 23, 2025, following extensive feedback from parents and lawmakers over the past year.

Tom Horne, Arizona’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, expressed satisfaction with the board’s endorsement. He emphasized that the revisions aim to provide parents with clear guidance on ESA expenses while ensuring the program is managed effectively and taxpayer funds are spent appropriately. “Anything less would potentially damage the ESA program,” he stated, underscoring its importance for parental choice in education.

The ESA program permits Arizona parents to utilize state funds for various educational costs, including tutoring and private school tuition. The handbook outlines compliance with program rules, eligibility guidelines, the application process, and what expenses are permitted or prohibited.

Compared to the previous handbook, the new version aims to address gaps, particularly concerning Special Education students. The prior handbook provided broad guidelines but lacked detailed protocols for evaluating expenses related to diverse educational needs.

The updated handbook introduces a more comprehensive framework for assessing expenses for Special Education students. It offers clearer criteria for approvals on items like specialized therapies and adaptive equipment. However, some parents raise concerns that certain language remains vague, revealing ongoing difficulties in meeting all Special Education requirements.

During the board meeting, ESA Director John Ward defended the handbook’s broad language, arguing it allows for necessary flexibility to cater to diverse student needs.