Reading Sage: Your Trusted Reading Community: ESA GUIDE for Parents: Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA)

ESA GUIDE for Arizona parents | Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Programs for parents with children on the autism spectrum and students with special needs

Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Program

Comprehensive Strategic Guide and Analysis for Special Education Families

The Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program represents one of the most expansive educational choice initiatives in the United States, providing direct state funding to families for private educational expenses. For families with special education students, this program offers significantly enhanced funding and broader flexibility compared to general education students.

Key Highlights:

Universal Eligibility: All K-12 Arizona students now qualify (expanded 2022)
Special Education Premium: Students with disabilities receive $25,000-$43,000 annually vs. $6,000-$7,500 for general education
Current Scale: 94,966 students enrolled (as of October 2025)
Fund Flexibility: Covers tuition, therapies, curriculum, assistive technology, and more
No Income Restrictions: Available to all Arizona families regardless of household income

I. PROGRAM STRUCTURE & GOVERNANCE

A. Legal Framework

Statutory Authority:

Arizona Revised Statutes §15-2401 through §15-2406
Arizona Administrative Code R7-2-1501 through R7-2-1511
Constitutional basis: Upheld by Arizona Court of Appeals (Niehaus v. Huppenthal, 2014)

Administering Entities:

Arizona Department of Education (ADE): Program administration, application processing, compliance
State Board of Education (SBE): Policy oversight, appeals, handbook approval
Arizona Treasurer's Office: Fund disbursement
ClassWallet: Third-party financial platform for fund management
Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide (AZOCA): Issue resolution and complaint assistance

B. Program History & Evolution

Year	Milestone
2011	Program established for students with disabilities only
2014	Constitutionality upheld by Arizona courts
2016-2021	Gradual expansion to additional categories (military families, foster care, D/F schools)
2022	Universal expansion - All K-12 students eligible (HB 2853)
2025	94,966 students enrolled; projected to exceed $1 billion in annual spending

II. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

A. Special Education Eligibility Categories

Primary Qualification Path: Student must have one of the following from an Arizona public school:

Individualized Education Program (IEP) - Full special education evaluation
Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) Report - Comprehensive evaluation
504 Plan - Accommodations for disabilities affecting education
Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) - From qualified examiner (MD, DO, psychiatrist, or psychologist)

Preschool Eligibility:

Ages 3-5 (or within 90 days of third birthday)
Must have current MET/IEP/504 from Arizona public school
Funding Range: $3,200-$9,000 annually depending on disability category

B. Disability Classifications & Funding Weights

Arizona recognizes 13 IDEA disability categories, each with different funding multipliers:

Disability Category	Approximate Annual Funding	Notes
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)	$28,000	Highest funding category
Multiple Disabilities with Severe Sensory Impairment	$25,000-$43,000	Varies by severity
Emotional Disability	$20,000-$25,000	Requires ongoing clinical documentation
Intellectual Disability	$18,000-$22,000	Based on adaptive functioning needs
Multiple Disabilities	$18,000-$22,000	Two or more significant disabilities
Orthopedic Impairment	$15,000-$20,000	May include assistive technology costs
Other Health Impairment (OHI)	$12,000-$18,000	Includes ADHD, chronic conditions
Specific Learning Disability (SLD)	$10,000-$15,000	Most common category
Speech/Language Impairment	$8,000-$12,000	Lower weight, specific services
Developmental Delay (ages 3-9 only)	$8,000-$15,000	Must re-evaluate at age 10
Traumatic Brain Injury	$18,000-$25,000	Case-by-case determination
Visual/Hearing Impairment	$20,000-$30,000	Specialized equipment costs
Preschool Severe Delay	$8,000-$15,000	Preschool only; re-evaluate for K

Important: Funding amounts are 90% of what the state would allocate if the student attended public school, including disability weights.

C. Additional Eligibility Categories

Beyond special education, students qualify if they are:

Previous ESA participant
Child of active military parent
Child of military parent killed in line of duty
Residing on Indian reservation
Ward of juvenile court in prospective permanent placement
Sibling of current/previous ESA student
Attending or assigned to D/F-rated school
Child of legally blind, deaf, or hard of hearing parent
Universal: Any K-12 student (no special circumstances needed)

III. FUNDING STRUCTURE & AMOUNTS

A. Base Funding Formula

Calculation:

ESA Award = (State Base Per-Pupil Funding × 90%) + Disability Weight

2024-2025 Estimated Amounts:

General Education (K): $4,000-$5,000
General Education (Grades 1-12): $6,000-$7,500
Special Education: $8,000-$43,000 (varies by disability category)
Average across all ESA students: $9,782 (2023-24 data)

B. Disbursement Schedule

Funds distributed quarterly according to fixed schedule:

Quarter	Dates	Funding Window	Notes
Q1	July 1 - Sept 30	July 15-31	Contract must be signed; 3-5 weeks for account setup
Q2	Oct 1 - Dec 31	Oct 15-31	Funding adjustments may occur based on final calculations
Q3	Jan 1 - Mar 31	Jan 15-31	Mid-year evaluation period
Q4	April 1 - June 30	April 15-30	Final quarter; renewal contracts sent in May

Critical Timing Note: New contracts signed in Q2 (Oct-Dec) may reflect prior fiscal year funding factors until Q2 funding when adjustments occur.

C. Funding Continuity & Rollovers

Unused funds roll over to next fiscal year automatically
No expiration while student remains eligible
Exited contracts: Students who graduate high school/GED can use remaining balance for up to 4 years for postsecondary education
Students with disabilities: Can continue until age 22 if not graduated or earned GED

IV. APPLICATION PROCESS

A. Required Documentation

All Applicants Must Provide:

Student Birth Certificate

Full color image showing all four corners
Must match applicant's legal name
Name change documentation if applicable

Proof of Arizona Residency (Choose from Primary or Secondary lists)

Primary List (submit ONE):

Utility bill (water, electric, gas, cable, landline, internet) within 60 days
Physical address verification letter from fire/law enforcement (rural only) within 60 days
Tribal agency/Chapter House verification (reservation addresses) within 60 days
Military temporary on-base billeting facility within 60 days
Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) enrollment card

Secondary List (submit TWO if cannot provide Primary):

Social Security Administration documents (60 days)
Veterans Affairs Administration documents (60 days)
Arizona DES documents (60 days)
Arizona ADOT vehicle registration (60 days)
Property tax bill with name (1 year)
W-2, 1098, or 1099 tax documents (1 year)

Alternative:

Notarized Affidavit of Shared Residence (if no documents in applicant's name)

Driver's License or Government-Issued ID

For Special Education Students - ADDITIONAL:

Special Education Documentation (one of the following):

Complete IEP with signature page (at least one non-parent signature required)
Complete MET Report with signature page
504 Plan (complete document)
Independent Educational Evaluation from qualified examiner with current license

For Other Special Categories: See specific documentation requirements at azed.gov/esa/eligibility-requirements

B. Application Steps

Step 1: Create ADEConnect Account

Visit: https://esaportal.azed.gov/Account
Set up email and secure password
One-time registration required

Step 2: Complete Online Application

Log in to ESA Applicant Portal
Fill out student and family information
Upload all required documents in one submission

Step 3: Document Review

30-day processing timeline for complete applications
Incomplete applications receive email with specific missing items
Additional 30 days granted after submitting missing documents
Applications closed if documents not submitted within 30 days of notification

Step 4: Contract Issuance

Approved applications receive contract via ESA Parent Portal
Contract must be signed electronically
Email confirmation sent upon signing

Step 5: Account Setup & Funding

ClassWallet account created (3-5 weeks after contract signing)
ADE requests funding from State Treasurer
Treasurer approves and transmits to ClassWallet
Account holder receives email notification when funds available
Total timeline from contract to funding: 3-5 weeks

C. Application Status Outcomes

flowchart TD

A[Submit Complete Application] --> B{30-Day Review}

B -->|Approved| C[Contract Issued]

B -->|Incomplete| D[Email: Missing Documents]

B -->|Ineligible| E[Denial Notice with Appeal Rights]

D --> F[Submit Missing Items]

F --> G{30-Day Review}

G -->|Complete| C

G -->|Still Incomplete After 30 Days| H[Application Closed]

C --> I[Sign Contract]

I --> J[ClassWallet Setup - 3-5 Weeks]

J --> K[Funds Available]

V. ALLOWABLE EXPENSES

A. Universal Expenses (All ESA Students)

1. Private School Tuition & Fees

Qualified schools (non-governmental, PK-12, Arizona-based or within 2 miles of border on Indian reservations)
Must not discriminate based on race, color, or national origin
Approved fees: application, enrollment, registration, facility, lab, book, supply, transportation, uniform, musical instrument rental, payment processing

2. Tutoring & Teaching Services

Providers must have high school diploma or higher from accredited institution
Arizona recognizes homeschool diplomas (A.R.S. §1-701)
Business accreditation attestation form accepted for multi-tutor businesses
Examples: Academic subjects, foreign languages, music, art, drama, cooking, physical education, swimming, martial arts, horseback riding, chess, driver's education

3. Curriculum & Supplemental Materials

Curriculum Requirements:

Student name
Course of study
Learning objectives
Teaching methods and lesson plans
Required supplemental materials list

General Education Supplemental Materials (No curriculum required as of July 2025):

Art supplies (paint, canvas, brushes, clay, colored pencils, markers, crayons)
Books (physical, audio, digital), magazines, workbooks
Educational games, puzzles, flash cards, kits
School supplies (paper, folders, binders, writing utensils, staplers)
Desk and chair for student (≤2 people capacity)
Small file drawer, desk organizer
Educational software and apps
Instrument accessories and maintenance
Manipulatives (math cubes, Legos, blocks, shapes)
Timers, clocks, rulers, compasses, protractors
Small activity table, school mat/rug (≤35 sq ft)
Bookcase (≤40 sq ft)
Dry erase boards and easels

Supplemental Materials Requiring Curriculum Documentation:

Gym/PE facility membership (student only, not family)
Sports league enrollment and camps (no travel/lodging/food)
Educational camp enrollment (no travel/lodging/food)
Home economics equipment (measuring cups, spatulas, sewing machines, baking equipment)
Instruments
Photography equipment
Physical education equipment
Playground equipment
Smart boards
Watches (analog/digital)
Tools for vocational education
Seeds/small saplings
Single tickets for educational venues (zoos, science/art museums, ballet, orchestra, plays)

4. Online Learning Programs

Non-public online schools and programs
Subscription must be individual student (not family subscription)
Contract-year subscriptions only
Subscriber should be student name with parent billing

5. Testing & Assessments

Nationally standardized achievement tests
Advanced Placement (AP) exams
College admission tests (ACT, SAT, PSAT)
Prep courses for college admission tests
Grade-level standardized testing

6. Postsecondary Education

Arizona community colleges
Arizona universities under Board of Regents
Accredited private in-state or online postsecondary institutions
Allowable: Tuition, fees, required textbooks, dual enrollment
Not allowable: Room and board, meals, meal plans, transportation

7. Public School Services

Individual classes (art, music, vocational education)
Extracurricular programs (sports, band, drama, debate)
Critical: Student must be enrolled as "Tuition Payer Code 2" (NOT "Payer Code 1")
Must obtain itemized invoice from school
Uniforms allowed only if specifically required by class/program

8. Computer Hardware & Technology

Personal computers, laptops, tablets
Calculators, microscopes, telescopes
Printers
Not allowed: TVs, phones, video game consoles, home theater equipment
Note: Educational headphones/earbuds allowed as supplemental material

9. Transportation

Public transportation within Arizona between residence and qualified school
Includes: commuter passes, taxi, ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), public bus, vanpool

10. Insurance & Bonds

Insurance or surety bond payments related to ESA for allowable expenses

B. Special Education-Only Expenses

Students must have IEP, MET, 504, or IEE on file to access these categories:

1. Educational Therapies & Services

Must be provided by licensed or accredited practitioner. License copy required (not screenshots).

Therapy Type	Required Accreditation
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)	BCBA, BCBA-D, BCaBA
Cognitive Behavioral/Play Therapy	Licensed psychologist or counselor
Occupational Therapy (OT)	OT license (OT Assistants approved)
Physical Therapy (PT)	PT license (PT Assistants approved)
Speech Therapy	Speech-Language Pathologist license (SLP Assistants approved)
Aquatic Therapy	Aquatic PT license, OT license, or PT license
Art Therapy	AATA certification, OT license, or PT license
Music Therapy	AMTA, CBMT certification
Equine Therapy/Hippotherapy	EAGALA, NACPET, NARHA, PATH, OT/PT license, or Recreational Therapy cert
Vision Therapy	Pediatric/behavioral/developmental optometrist
Recreational Therapy	ATRA, NCTRC certification, or Recreational Therapy license
Social Group Therapy	CBT certification, licensed counselor, psychologist, school counselor, or special ed teacher
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)	BCBA, BCaBA, licensed psychologist/counselor, or RDI certificate

Important Notes:

Virtual and in-person therapies both approved
Late, cancelled, or missed appointment fees NOT allowable
Can use private medical insurance in conjunction with ESA (must document uncovered amount)

2. Associated Goods & Assistive Technology

Must provide ONE of the following:

Documentation of enrollment in course of study supporting disability/educational need
Current IEP, MET, 504, or IEE indicating need for good/service
Letter from qualified examiner, qualified service provider, or certified special education teacher indicating need (must include license number and signature)

Examples:

Sensory items (weighted blankets, fidget tools, sensory chairs)
Assistive technology devices
Computer hardware/devices assisting in accessing educational materials
Braille-translated materials
Specialized educational software
Adaptive equipment

Pre-approval option: Can request via ESA Support Ticket (not required)

3. Paraprofessionals & Educational Aides

Distinct from tutors - these individuals assist the tutor, teacher, or parent

Required Credentials (one of the following):

Associate degree or higher (transcripts required)
60+ college credit hours from accredited school (transcripts required)
Passing score on one of three tests:

ACT WorkKeys
ParaEducator
Praxis ParaPro

4. Educational & Psychological Evaluations

Can use ESA funds to obtain private psycho-educational evaluations
Must be from qualified examiner (licensed physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist)
Used for updating disability classification or obtaining IEE for ESA purposes
Note: Universal students (without disability) CANNOT use ESA to pay for initial evaluation

5. Vocational & Life Skills Education

Programs designed to help students develop skills for independent living and work:

Career and Technical Education Districts (CTEDs)
Vocational schools
Trade schools
Community colleges (vocational programs)
Life skills programs focusing on self-reflection, critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal skills

6. Medical Insurance

Can use ESA funds in conjunction with private medical insurance for educational therapies
Must document amount not covered by insurance on statement/invoice

VI. PROHIBITED EXPENSES

A. Statutory Prohibitions

Technology & Entertainment:

Televisions
Telephones (smartphones, cell phones)
Video game consoles and accessories
Home theater and audio equipment
Smartwatches with cellular service

Personal Items:

Clothing (except required uniforms)
Footwear
Backpacks, lunch boxes, water bottles
Jewelry and precious metals
Bedding

Food & Dining:

Food of any kind (including animal feed)
Ready-to-eat subscription boxes
Dining expenses
Day care fees

Travel & Lodging:

Hotel and lodging
Travel costs for teachers or tutors
Overnight accommodations for camps

Home & Property:

Land/real property
Large appliances (stoves, refrigerators, freezers, microwaves)
Home furnishings and fixtures (wall art, floor lamps, cabinets, nightstands)
Home improvement items (wood, piping, irrigation, concrete)
Lawn and landscaping equipment
Solar panels or systems
Outdoor shade structures
Swimming pools, saunas, ponds
Greenhouses >100 sq ft
Large chicken coops (>12 chickens)

Vehicles & Large Equipment:

Motorized vehicles
Motorized go-karts, scooters
Trailers of any kind
Multi-person kayaks
Trampolines >10 ft diameter

Fees:

Late payment fees
Cancellation fees
Returned payment fees
Non-educational school fees (parking passes, yearbooks, picture day, caps/gowns, fundraising requirements, PTA participation)
Amazon Prime or similar subscription fees
Consultation fees
Assembly/installation fees

Weapons & Safety:

Weapons and ammunition
BB guns, airsoft guns, paintball guns
Exception: Archery bows <35 lbs draw weight for archery instruction

Other:

Gift cards of any kind
Fundraising fees
Live animals (except life-cycle vouchers for educational purposes)
BBQ grills, smokers, fire pits
Bounce houses, water slides
Pizza ovens
Children's car seats
Commercial/industrial/professional-grade items

B. Non-Approved Therapies & Medical Services

Not allowable even for students with disabilities:

Acupressure and acupuncture
Chiropractic services
Craniosacral therapy
Dental exams or services
Eye exams, physical exams
Health exams, blood work, labs
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Massage therapy
Medical equipment, devices, or services
Medications, vitamins, supplements
Medical supplies (except those required by educational curricula)
Nutritionists
Reiki
Any primarily medical (not educational) service

C. Restrictions on Payments

Cannot pay with ESA funds:

Account holders (parents, stepparents, legal guardians)
The ESA student themselves
Family members providing services
Services occurring before contract was signed
Services occurring before July 1 of contract year (except pre-paid enrollment fees)
Expenses for other students (each ESA is individual)

Shared equipment exception: Can purchase allowable items that may later be used by other ESA siblings

VII. FUND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A. ClassWallet Platform

Overview:

Third-party financial management system
Administered by ClassWallet Inc.
Contract with Arizona State Treasurer
Secure digital wallet for each student

Access:

Through ESA Parent Portal
Desktop/laptop recommended (mobile limited functionality)
Toggle between multiple students via dropdown menu

Customer Support:

Phone: 1-877-969-5536
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm EST, Saturday 10am-4pm EST
Email: help@classwallet.com
Help site: classwallet.my.site.com/classwallet/s/

B. Four Spending Methods

1. Marketplace

Online vendors within ClassWallet platform
Items shipped directly to address on record
Auto-approval for many standard items
Wide selection of educational materials

2. Pay Vendor

Direct payment to registered schools and service providers
Must upload complete invoice
ESA reviews and approves
Vendor receives payment within 2-10 business days
Vendor receives notification with student name, date, amount
Advantage: No need to submit tutor credentials (already on file)

3. Debit Card

Physical ClassWallet debit card
Draws from ESA account balance
Can use at point of sale, PayPal, Square/Venmo
Receipt submission required: Quarterly deadlines (see below)
After 20 transactions, must upload receipts or card deactivates
Restrictions: Certain Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) blocked

Blocked MCCs:

MCC 8211: Schools, Elementary and Secondary (must use Pay Vendor for private school tuition)
Other codes restricted to prevent fraud
Full list available at azed.gov/esa/esa-support
Can request MCC exceptions via ESA Support Ticket

Prohibited Debit Card Actions:

Cash withdrawals (automatic card suspension)
Cash advances
Cashier's check purchases
Sharing card or login credentials with anyone (including schools/vendors)

4. Reimbursement

Pay out-of-pocket, submit for reimbursement
Must link bank account to ClassWallet (one-time verification)
Submit itemized receipts or invoices with proof of payment
Only purchases AFTER contract signature eligible
Can submit throughout contract year (final deadline: end of month after contract year ends)

C. Documentation Requirements

Invoice Requirements:

Must include:

Vendor/school name, address, contact information
Invoice date and number
Student name
Student grade level (for preschool/kindergarten at qualified schools)
Itemized description of services/charges with dates
Total charges
For therapists/qualified examiners: License number on invoice
For reimbursements: Proof of payment required

Receipt Requirements:

Must include:

Vendor name, address, contact information
Receipt date
Receipt/transaction/order/reference number
Itemized list of items/services purchased
Total amount charged
Must be generated by vendor's point-of-sale or receipt system (no handwritten notes)

Debit Card Receipt Deadlines:

Quarter	Purchase Dates	Receipt Upload Deadline	Grace Period
Q1	July 1 - Sept 30	October 31	15 days after notification
Q2	Oct 1 - Dec 31	January 31	15 days after notification
Q3	Jan 1 - Mar 31	April 30	15 days after notification
Q4	April 1 - June 30	July 31	15 days after notification

Consequences of missing deadline:

Account suspension notification
15-day grace period to submit receipts
Debit card deactivation if not submitted
Possible account termination
Repayment of undocumented purchases
Referral to Attorney General for collections

Additional Documentation:

For specific purchases, may need to upload:

Curriculum (for supplemental materials requiring it)
Tutor/service provider credentials or business attestation form
Therapist license copy
Letter from qualified examiner/service provider/certified special ed teacher
IEP/MET/504/IEE documentation

VIII. COMPLIANCE & AUDITING

A. Audit Authority

Statutory Basis:

A.R.S. §15-2403(B) and A.A.C. R7-2-1508(A)
ADE may audit to ensure compliance with rules, policies, handbook, and state law
Can only audit last two fiscal years (including current year)
Risk-based auditing approach (formal notice to SBE required)

Annual Review Requirement:

ADE provides annual notice of review and audit procedures
Random reviews conducted
Specific purchases may be flagged for documentation requests

B. Key Compliance Principles

1. "Similarly Situated" Doctrine (A.A.C. R7-2-1507(C))

"The Department shall treat similar expenditures by similarly situated account holders in the same manner."

Example:

Student 1	Student 2	Item	Decision
ASD (autism)	ASD (autism)	Weighted blanket	Approved for both (similarly situated)
ASD (autism)	SLI (speech impairment)	Weighted blanket	Approved for Student 1 only (not similarly situated)
ASD (autism)	Universal (no disability)	Weighted blanket	Approved for Student 1 only (not similarly situated)

2. Prior Approval Protection

"The Department shall not request repayment for an expense it has approved for a specific ESA" (A.A.C. R7-2-1507(C))

Important Notes:

Applies to expenses explicitly approved by Department
Does not authorize spending contrary to statute
Does not protect against fraudulent submissions
Approval must be for your specific account

3. Core Contract Requirements

Account holders MUST:

Spend portion of ESA funds on: reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, science (annually)
Not enroll student in public district/charter/online school concurrently
Not accept School Tuition Organization (STO) or tax credit scholarship in same fiscal year
Submit debit card receipts by quarterly deadlines
Not resell items purchased with ESA funds
Not pay themselves or the student with ESA funds
Not file homeschool affidavit (ESA contract serves as education proof)

C. Suspension & Termination Process

Suspension Triggers:

Missing debit card receipts
Unallowable purchases identified
Failure to spend on core subjects
Public school enrollment while on ESA
Concurrent STO scholarship acceptance
Fraudulent activity
Reselling ESA-purchased items
Self-payment violations

Suspension Process:

Day 0: ADE identifies issue

Day 1: Email notification of suspension with details

Day 1-15: Account holder has 15 business days to respond with:

• Documentation showing purchase was allowable, OR

• Proof of identity theft/fraud, OR

• Repayment for unallowable purchase, OR

• File appeal to State Board of Education

Day 16: If no response:

• Termination letter sent (email + certified mail)

• 30 calendar days to resolve or appeal

Day 46: If no response:

• Account closed

• Unused funds returned to State general fund

• Outstanding amounts referred to SBE

• SBE may refer to Attorney General for collections

Consequences of Termination:

All ESA accounts for that parent may be closed
Full audit conducted of closed account
Repayment required for all violations
May be barred from reapplying (especially for fraud)
Attorney General collection action possible
Criminal referral for substantial fraud

D. Repayment Procedures

When Repayment Required:

Unallowable purchases (not protected by prior approval)
Missing debit card receipts after grace period
Services not received
Fraudulent claims
Contract violations

Repayment Options:

Immediate Repayment

Make payment to: Arizona Department of Education
Include: Student name, Application ID, brief explanation
Methods: Personal check, cashier's check, money order
Address: ADE, Attn: ESA Program, 1535 W. Jefferson St, Bin #41, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Repayment Plan (Active Accounts Only)

Request through ESA support
ADE may approve installment schedule
Missing a payment triggers full balance referral to SBE
Account suspension lifted upon agreement

Through Attorney General

After SBE referral for collections
Must work through AG's established procedures
Repayments credited back to ESA account (except fraud cases)

Important: Account reactivates upon successful repayment if still within contract year

IX. SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES & PUBLIC SCHOOL INTERACTIONS

A. Child Find Obligations

Federal Requirement (IDEA 20 U.S.C. §1412(a)(3); 34 C.F.R. §300.111(a)):

Public school districts must identify all children with disabilities in their geographic boundaries, including:

Private school students
Homeschooled students
ESA students

Which District is Responsible?

Student's Current Placement	Responsible District
Homeschooled	District where parent resides
For-profit private school	District where parent resides
Non-profit private school	District where private school is located
Charter school	Charter school itself (no geographic boundaries)

District Obligations:

Must either conduct evaluation, OR
Provide prior written notice refusing to conduct evaluation

Key Point: ESA parents can request evaluations from public schools at no cost, even while participating in ESA program.

B. Equitable Services

Federal Law (34 C.F.R. §300.137(a)):

"A parentally placed private school child with a disability does NOT have an individual right to receive some or all of the special education and related services that the child would receive if enrolled in a public school."

However - Equitable Services May Be Available:

Eligible Students:

Students with disabilities attending non-profit private schools
Homeschooled students with disabilities
Regardless of ESA participation

Not Eligible:

Students attending for-profit private schools
Federal regulation 34 C.F.R. §300.132(a) excludes students in state-funded voucher programs from individual equitable services rights

What Are Equitable Services?

Limited special education services provided by public school district
Determined through consultation with private school officials
No individual entitlement - services determined by district allocation
Examples: Speech therapy, counseling, specialized instruction (limited hours)

Important:

Parents may accept or decline equitable services
No impact on ESA eligibility or contract
Contact ADE Exceptional Student Services: 602-542-4013

Information: Visit azed.gov Exceptional Student Services website for details on equitable services

C. Obtaining or Updating Disability Evaluations

Three Pathways to Obtain Evaluation:

Option 1: Public School Evaluation (No Cost)

Contact appropriate school district (see Child Find table)
Request special education evaluation in writing
District has specific timelines to respond and evaluate under IDEA
Results in IEP, MET Report, or 504 Plan

Option 2: ADE Contracted Third-Party Evaluator

Contact ESA Program to inquire about contracted evaluators
ADE may have contracts with independent evaluators
Costs covered or subsidized

Option 3: County Superintendent's List

If ADE has no contracted evaluators
Contact county school superintendent's office
Request list of approved independent evaluators
May need to pay out-of-pocket and seek reimbursement

Option 4: Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

Hire qualified examiner: Licensed physician (MD/DO), psychiatrist, or psychologist
Obtain evaluation for ESA purposes
Can use ESA funds to pay (only if already classified as student with disability)
Must include examiner's current license showing it was valid at time of evaluation

Updating Disability Classification:

Process:

Obtain new/updated evaluation (using any of 4 options above)
Submit ESA Support Ticket via ESA Parent Portal
Upload complete evaluation document
Request account update to reflect new disability category
ESA staff reviews (processing time varies)
If approved, new contract issued in portal
Sign new contract immediately to prevent funding delays

Important Notes:

Not all re-evaluations increase funding (may decrease based on new category)
Must highlight relevant sections showing disability/need in documentation
For students turning 10 with Developmental Delay, re-evaluation needed for continued disability status
For preschool students with Severe Delay moving to Kindergarten, re-evaluation needed for K-12 disability classification

Flowchart: Changing Disability Classification

Student needs evaluation/re-evaluation

↓

Choose evaluation pathway:

• Public school (free)

• ADE contracted evaluator

• County superintendent list

• Independent qualified examiner

↓

Obtain complete evaluation with:

• Diagnosis/findings

• Signature page (non-parent signature)

• Current license of evaluator

↓

Submit via ESA Support Ticket:

• Upload evaluation

• Request classification update

↓

ADE reviews and approves/denies

↓

If approved: New contract issued

↓

Sign new contract immediately

↓

Funding adjustment (if applicable) in next quarter

D. Students with Disabilities Beyond Grade 12

Extended Eligibility (A.R.S. §15-2402(4)(n)):

Students with disabilities who:

Have not graduated high school, AND
Have not earned GED

May continue ESA until age 22

Process:

In spring of 12th-grade cohort year, ESA notifies account holder
Account holder indicates intention to continue
Student must still meet disability classification requirements
Can continue accessing disability-specific expenses

After High School Graduation or GED:

Student receives "Exited" contract if funds remain
Can spend remaining balance for up to 4 years
Only for postsecondary education expenses
No new funding provided
Must still follow all program rules

X. PRIVATE SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT

A. Qualified School Requirements

Definition (A.R.S. §15-2401): "A nongovernmental primary or secondary school or a preschool for pupils with disabilities located in Arizona serving PK-12th grades."

Requirements:

Must not discriminate based on race, color, or national origin
Located in Arizona (exception: within 2 miles of border on Indian reservations)
Can be religious or secular
No state licensure or accreditation required
Sets own admission standards
Establishes own curriculum and policies

Schools Cannot:

Share, refund, or rebate ESA funds to account holders or students (A.R.S. §15-2402(J))
Keep debit cards on behalf of parents
Access parent ClassWallet accounts
Require disclosure of ESA award amounts

B. Tuition Payment Process

Step 1: Obtain Complete Invoice from School

Invoice must include:

School name, address, contact information
Invoice date and number
Student name
Grade level (for preschool/kindergarten)
Itemized charges: tuition, fees (with descriptions)
Total amount due
Payment due date

Step 2: Choose Payment Method

Option A: Pay Vendor (Recommended if school is registered)

Upload invoice in ClassWallet Pay Vendor section
Select school from vendor list
ESA reviews and approves
School receives payment in 2-10 business days
School receives payment notification with student name/amount

Option B: Debit Card

Use if school accepts card payments
Must verify school's MCC is not blocked
Submit paid invoice/receipt by quarterly deadline
School may charge 2% processing fee

Option C: Reimbursement

Pay school directly with personal funds
Upload paid invoice (showing payment received)
Receive reimbursement to linked bank account

Step 3: Documentation & Compliance

Keep copies of all invoices and payment confirmations
Upload to ClassWallet as required
Note payment date and method

C. School Registration as ClassWallet Vendor

Benefits for Schools:

Direct payment from ADE (no parent intermediary)
Predictable payment timeline (2-10 business days)
Automated payment notifications
Simplified reconciliation

Registration Process:

Visit azed.gov/esa/esa-support (Vendor section)
Click vendor registration link
Complete ClassWallet vendor application
Provide: Business information, tax ID, banking details, contact information
ADE reviews registration
Approval typically within 2-4 weeks
Listed in ClassWallet Pay Vendor directory

ClassWallet Processing Fee:

2% fee charged to vendor (not directly to parent)
Vendors may pass fee to parents as processing charge
Must be disclosed on invoice if charged

Alternative: Schools can remain unregistered and accept debit card or reimbursement payments (but longer payment timeline for parents)

D. Uniform Requirements

Allowable if:

Purchased from or through the qualified school, OR
School provides list of recommended/required vendors

Must be:

Specific uniform requirement (not general clothing)
Documented on school invoice or requirement list
Used for educational purposes

XI. TUTORING & SERVICE PROVIDER ENGAGEMENT

A. Individual Tutors

Minimum Qualification:

High school diploma or higher degree
From state, regional, or national accredited organization
Arizona recognizes homeschool diplomas (A.R.S. §1-701)

Documentation Required:

Copy of diploma, degree, or full transcripts
Cannot be screenshots
Must be legible
Cannot be expired (if time-limited credential)

Payment Methods:

Option 1: Register as ClassWallet Vendor

Provides credential once during registration
Parents can pay via Pay Vendor (no repeated credential uploads)
Receives payment within 2-10 business days
2% processing fee

Option 2: Accept Debit Card Payment

Parent uploads tutor credential with each receipt submission
Immediate payment to tutor
Parent responsible for quarterly documentation

Option 3: Reimbursement

Parent pays tutor directly
Parent uploads receipt + credential
Parent receives reimbursement

Invoicing Best Practices:

Include all required invoice elements (see Section VII.C)
Itemize by date and subject
Include license/credential number if applicable
Specify exact services provided

B. Multi-Tutor Businesses

Two Options for Accreditation:

Option 1: Business Accreditation

Submit documentation of business accreditation from state, regional, or national organization
Covers all tutors under business umbrella

Option 2: Business Attestation Form

Complete and submit "Tutoring/Teaching Services Business Accreditation Attestation Form"

Form Requirements:

Company name, address, phone, email
Attestation that:

For academic tutoring: All tutors have high school diploma or higher from accredited organization
For non-academic tutoring: All tutors have high school diploma or higher OR certification in area of instruction

Signature of company representative
Date

Available at: azed.gov/sites/default/files/2025/02/ESA_Tutoring_Teaching_Services_Attestation_Fillable_Form.pdf

Key Benefit: One-time submission covers all tutors; parents don't need individual credentials

C. Therapy Providers (Special Education Only)

Strict Licensure Requirements

Must provide copy of current, valid license:

Not screenshots of website
Actual license document or verification from state board
Must show license number and expiration date
Must be current at time services provided

For Foreign Credentials:

Must be translated to English
Must be evaluated for U.S. degree equivalence
Evaluation by qualified credential evaluation service
Translator and evaluation costs not covered by ESA

Payment Process:

Best Practice: Register with ClassWallet

Upload license once during registration
Parents pay via Pay Vendor without repeated uploads
Faster payment processing

Alternative: Direct Payment

Parent uploads license copy with each transaction
Required for debit card and reimbursement methods

Documentation:

Session notes or progress reports helpful but not required
Invoice must itemize dates of service
License number should appear on invoice

Coordination with Insurance:

Can use ESA + private insurance
Invoice must show insurance payment and balance due
ESA can cover co-pays and amounts not covered by insurance

XII. CURRICULUM & HOMESCHOOL GUIDANCE

A. Educational Requirements

Mandatory Subjects (A.R.S. §15-2402(B)(1)):

Account holders MUST spend a portion of ESA funds annually on:

Reading
Grammar
Mathematics
Social studies
Science

Verification:

Audited during compliance reviews
Must show purchases/receipts in each subject area
Can be curriculum, tutoring, online programs, or qualified school
No minimum amount specified per subject

Recommended but Not Required:

Art, music, physical education
Foreign languages
Vocational education
Life skills

B. Homeschool Affidavit - CRITICAL RULE

DO NOT file homeschool affidavit with county superintendent while on ESA

Why:

A.R.S. §15-2402(B)(5) prohibits filing homeschool affidavit
ESA contract serves as proof of education
Double-filing may cause legal complications

If Already Filed:

Contact appropriate county superintendent's office immediately
Request withdrawal of homeschool affidavit
Provide copy of signed ESA contract as education proof

Classification:

ESA students are NOT classified as "homeschoolers" under Arizona law
ESA is distinct category
Different reporting and requirements

C. Curriculum Development & Documentation

When Curriculum Required:

Curriculum documentation needed for supplemental materials that:

Are not on the "general education supplemental materials" list
Require justification for educational purpose
Include: gym memberships, sports leagues, educational camps, instruments, specialized equipment

Curriculum Components:

Must Include:

Student Information

Student name
Student ESA Application ID number
Grade level or age

Course of Study

Subject area (e.g., Art, Physical Education, Music, Science)
Overall goals and learning objectives

Method of Teaching

Instructional approach
Lesson plans (can be brief)
Activities and exercises
Timeline or schedule

Required Supplemental Materials

List of materials needed to achieve learning objectives
How materials support curriculum
Scope and sequence showing material integration

Example: Parent-Provided Curriculum for Art

Student Name: [Student Name]

Application ID: [######]

Subject: Art

Learning Objectives:

• Understand and identify warm colors and cool colors

• Explore how colors affect mood and emotion

• Apply color theory in creative projects

Method of Teaching/Lesson Plans:

Lesson 1: Discovering Warm and Cool Colors

Activities:

1. Discussion: Introduce warm colors (red, orange, yellow) and cool colors (blue, green, purple)

2. Color Exploration: Using crayons, draw pictures using warm colors on one side of paper and cool colors on other side

3. Reflection: Students share drawings and discuss how colors make them feel

Lesson 2: Nature's Colors

Activities:

1. Leaf Collection: Collect variety of fall leaves

2. Observation: Analyze leaves and categorize into warm and cool color groups

3. Watercolor Painting: Create background divided into warm and cool color zones

4. Leaf Rubbing: Create leaf rubbings focusing on capturing colors

Required Supplemental Materials:

• 9 x 18 inch white paper

• Crayons (warm and cool colors)

• Variety of fall leaves

• Watercolor paints

• Wide paint brush

• Newspaper

Submission:

Upload via ClassWallet when submitting purchase
Can upload multiple curricula for different subjects
Update annually or as needed
Can reuse curriculum for multiple purchases in same subject

Template Available: azed.gov/sites/default/files/2025/02/Parent_Provided_Curriculum_Fillable_Form.pdf

D. Online Curriculum & Programs

Allowable Online Programs:

Complete online schools (non-public)
Individual course subscriptions
Educational software and apps
Video-based learning platforms

Requirements:

Must be individual student subscription (not family plan)
Contract-year subscriptions only
Subscriber name should be student with parent billing

Examples:

Time4Learning
Khan Academy (if subscription-based)
Teaching Textbooks
IXL
ABCmouse (age-appropriate)
Outschool classes
EdX courses

Documentation:

Submit invoice/receipt showing student name
Must indicate educational purpose
If family subscription, must show itemized breakdown per student

XIII. FINANCIAL PLANNING & OPTIMIZATION

A. Award Maximization Strategies

1. Disability Classification Optimization

Action: Ensure evaluation captures all applicable disabilities

Students may qualify for multiple disability categories
Primary category determines funding weight
Re-evaluation every 3 years recommended
Can request change in classification if circumstances change

Example:

Student initially classified as SLD (Specific Learning Disability): ~$12,000/year
Re-evaluation reveals ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) + ADHD: ~$28,000/year
Annual increase: $16,000

2. Timing of Contract Signing

Strategic Timing:

Sign contract in Q1 (July) to access full year's funding
Q2 signings may experience funding adjustments
Earlier signing = earlier access to funds

3. Preschool Early Intervention

Opportunity:

Children age 3-5 with disabilities qualify
Early intervention services expensive
ESA can cover therapies, specialized preschools
$8,000-$15,000 annually for preschool ages

Action: Obtain evaluation as early as age 3 (or within 90 days of third birthday)

4. Fund Rollover Strategy

Key Insight: Unused funds roll over indefinitely

Strategic Applications:

Build balance in early years for expensive later needs
Save for high school (dual enrollment, AP exams, college prep)
Accumulate for postsecondary education (exited contract)
Plan for age 18-22 continuation (students with disabilities)

Example:

Years K-5: Spend $15,000/year, receive $25,000/year
Accumulation: $10,000 × 6 years = $60,000
High school years: Use accumulated funds for intensive college prep, dual enrollment, private tutoring

5. Combining Resources

Allowable Combinations:

ESA + Private insurance (for therapies)
ESA + Public school services (individual classes, labeled as Tuition Payer Code 2)
ESA + Scholarships from private organizations (not STOs)
ESA + Family contributions
ESA + 529 college savings plans (for postsecondary)

Not Allowable:

ESA + School Tuition Organization (STO) scholarships (same fiscal year)
ESA + Public school enrollment as Payer Code 1

B. Budget Allocation Models

Model 1: Private School + Therapies (Common for Special Ed)

Category	Annual Cost	% of $28,000 Award
Private school tuition	$12,000	43%
Speech therapy (2x/week)	$8,000	29%
Occupational therapy (1x/week)	$4,000	14%
Curriculum & materials	$2,000	7%
Testing & assessments	$1,000	4%
Educational technology	$1,000	4%
Total	$28,000	100%

Model 2: Homeschool + Intensive Therapies (Special Ed)

Category	Annual Cost	% of $28,000 Award
ABA therapy (15 hrs/week)	$15,000	54%
Curriculum & materials	$3,000	11%
Online programs	$2,000	7%
Tutoring (math, reading)	$4,000	14%
Occupational therapy	$3,000	11%
Educational supplies & technology	$1,000	4%
Total	$28,000	100%

Model 3: Hybrid Approach (General Ed)

Category	Annual Cost	% of $7,000 Award
Part-time private school (3 days/week)	$4,000	57%
Online learning programs	$1,000	14%
Tutoring (specialized subjects)	$1,200	17%
Curriculum & materials	$500	7%
Educational experiences (museums, camps)	$300	4%
Total	$7,000	100%

Model 4: Dual Enrollment Focus (High School)

Category	Annual Cost	% of $7,500 Award
Community college courses (12 credits)	$3,600	48%
Online high school	$2,000	27%
AP/SAT prep courses	$800	11%
Required textbooks	$600	8%
Testing fees (AP, SAT)	$500	7%
Total	$7,500	100%

C. Tax Implications

Federal Tax Treatment:

ESA funds do NOT constitute taxable income (A.R.S. §15-2401)
No Form 1099 issued
No reporting required on federal tax return

State Tax Treatment:

Arizona: Not taxable income
No state reporting required

Important Distinction:

529 Education Savings Plans: Different tax treatment
Coverdell ESA: Different from Arizona ESA program
Private scholarships: May have different tax implications

Records to Keep:

ESA does not change tax filing requirements
Maintain records for audit purposes (not tax purposes)
Keep documentation for 2 years minimum

XIV. PRIVACY, SECURITY & DATA PROTECTION

A. FERPA Protections

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

Arizona law A.R.S. §15-1045 incorporates FERPA protections
ESA records likely constitute "education records"
Personally identifiable information protected

Protected Information:

Student name, date of birth, address
Disability classifications and evaluations
Educational records and progress
Financial information (award amounts, purchases)
Family contact information

Who Can Access:

Account holder (parent/stepparent/legal guardian)
Designated advocates (with written permission)
ADE staff (for program administration)
SBE (for appeals and oversight)
Auditors (for compliance)

Who Cannot Access:

Private schools (without parent consent)
Service providers (without parent consent)
Other family members (without designation)
Public (AZOCA opinion I20-010)

B. Advocate Designation

Advocates Defined:

Friends, family members, consultants who assist with ESA navigation
May participate in calls/emails with ADE
May help prepare documents

Formal Designation Required:

Account holder must submit written notification to ADE
Must specify advocate name and contact information
Account holder must be present for all communications
Advocates cannot submit documents independently

Process:

Send written notice to ESACallCenter@azed.gov
Include: Advocate name, relationship, phone, email
Specify scope of assistance
Update as needed

Limitations:

Advocates cannot sign applications or contracts
Advocates cannot access ClassWallet accounts
Advocates cannot receive confidential information directly
Account holder maintains full responsibility

C. Information Security Best Practices

ClassWallet Account Security:

Critical Rules:

NEVER share login credentials with anyone
NEVER share ClassWallet password
NEVER give debit card to schools or vendors
NEVER share debit card PIN

Recommended Practices:

Use strong, unique password
Enable two-factor authentication if available
Log out after each session
Monitor account regularly for unauthorized transactions
Report suspicious activity immediately

Personal Information Protection:

Do Not Share with Third Parties:

ESA Application ID number
Student social security number
Date of birth
Award amounts
ClassWallet account details

Limited Sharing Necessary:

Schools need: Student name, grade, invoice requirements
Tutors need: Student name, subjects, schedule
Therapists need: Student name, disability information (relevant to services)

Identity Theft Protection:

Report suspected fraud immediately
File police report if identity theft suspected
Notify ADE ESA Program
Dispute unauthorized charges with ClassWallet
May need to freeze credit (for parent and student)

Document Security:

Store evaluation documents securely
Shred old financial documents
Use secure file sharing for sensitive uploads
Avoid sending sensitive info via unencrypted email

D. Public Records Requests

Arizona Public Records Law:

Some ESA records may be subject to public records requests
Attorney General Opinion I20-010: ESA contracts and certain documents likely not public records under FERPA
ADE will protect information to maximum extent allowed by law

What May Be Public:

Aggregate program statistics
Total enrollment numbers
Average award amounts (not individual)
Policy documents and handbooks

What Should Remain Private:

Individual student information
Specific disability classifications
Award amounts for individuals
Purchase histories
Family contact information

XV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION & APPEALS

A. Appeal Rights

State Board of Education (SBE) Appeals:

Grounds for Appeal:

Denial of application
Account suspension
Account termination
Repayment determination
Disagreement with ADE decision

Appeal Process:

Step 1: Receive notice from ADE

(Denial, suspension, termination)

↓

Step 2: Submit written appeal to SBE

Timeline: Within timeframes specified in notice

(Usually 15 days for suspension, 30 days for termination)

↓

Step 3: SBE reviews appeal

May request additional information

May schedule hearing

↓

Step 4: SBE issues decision

Options: Uphold ADE, reverse ADE, modify ADE decision

↓

Step 5: If unfavorable - Superior Court appeal

Must file within 35 days of SBE decision (A.R.S. §41-1993)

How to File Appeal:

Visit: azsbe.az.gov/empowerment-scholarship-account-esa-program
Download appeal form
Submit via email or mail to SBE
Include: Copy of ADE notice, supporting documentation, detailed explanation

SBE Contact:

Arizona State Board of Education
1535 W. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-5057

B. Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide (AZOCA)

Role:

Independent state agency
Investigates complaints against state agencies
Mediates disputes
No cost to families

When to Contact AZOCA:

Communication breakdowns with ADE
Unresolved issues after attempts to resolve with ESA program
Concerns about fairness or process
Need for neutral third-party assistance

What AZOCA Can Do:

Investigate complaints
Facilitate communication
Recommend solutions
Issue findings

What AZOCA Cannot Do:

Overturn ADE decisions (use SBE appeals)
Provide legal advice
Act as attorney
Force specific outcomes

Contact AZOCA:

Phone: 602-277-7292
Web: azoca.gov
Complaint form available online
No cost, confidential assistance

C. Internal ADE Resolution Process

Before Appeals - Resolution Steps:

Step 1: ESA Support Ticket

Submit ticket via ESA Parent Portal
Clearly explain issue
Attach relevant documentation
Receive response within 3-5 business days (typical)

Step 2: Phone Call to ESA Call Center

602-364-1969
Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
Request to speak with supervisor if needed
Document call: date, time, representative name, outcome

Step 3: Email to ESA Call Center

ESACallCenter@azed.gov
Put "Escalation Request" in subject line
Include account details (Application ID, student name)
Summarize previous attempts to resolve

Step 4: Request Executive Review

If unresolved after Steps 1-3
Send email to ESA Program leadership
Reference previous tickets/calls
Request formal review

Step 5: Consider Ombudsman or Appeal

If internal resolution unsuccessful
Evaluate whether formal appeal appropriate
Consider AZOCA assistance

Documentation Best Practices:

Keep copies of all correspondence
Note dates, times, names of ADE staff
Save email confirmations
Screenshot important information
Organize chronologically

XVI. STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS

A. For Families New to ESA

Phase 1: Application (Weeks 1-4)

Priority Actions:

Gather all required documents before starting application
For special ed: Obtain current IEP/MET/504 or schedule evaluation
Review residency documentation requirements carefully
Complete application in single session if possible
Upload clear, complete images (all four corners visible)
Submit application early in fiscal year if possible (July preferred)

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

Incomplete birth certificate images
Expired utility bills
Missing signature pages on evaluations
Applying without current disability documentation

Phase 2: Contract & Setup (Weeks 5-8)

Priority Actions:

Sign contract immediately upon receipt
Set up ClassWallet account (desktop/laptop required)
Link bank account for reimbursements
Order ClassWallet debit card
Review allowable expenses thoroughly
Begin researching schools/service providers

Phase 3: Initial Spending (Months 3-6)

Priority Actions:

Secure private school placement (if using)
Schedule evaluations/assessments (if needed)
Identify and vet tutors/therapists
Purchase core curriculum
Set up online learning programs
Establish routine for receipt documentation

Best Practices:

Start with Pay Vendor for tuition (easiest method)
Use Marketplace for standard educational materials
Save debit card for point-of-sale purchases
Document everything immediately
Create folder system for receipts

B. For Families with Special Education Students

Maximizing Benefits:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation Strategy

Schedule comprehensive evaluation every 3 years
Ensure evaluation tests for all relevant disabilities
Consider private IEE if public school evaluation inadequate
Document all therapist recommendations for equipment/services

2. Therapy Optimization

Research therapy providers before funds arrive
Verify licensure before engaging services
Request invoices with clear itemization
Coordinate with private insurance for maximum coverage
Consider group therapy options (more affordable)

3. Equipment & Technology Planning

Create list of assistive technology needs
Obtain letters of recommendation from therapists
Research before purchasing (ensure quality and fit)
Consider equipment that grows with student
Plan for technology refresh cycle (3-5 years)

4. Associated Goods Documentation

Keep all IEP/MET/504 documents current
Request therapist letters for sensory items
Highlight specific recommendations in documents
Submit pre-approval requests for expensive items

5. Transition Planning (Age 18-22)

Begin vocational assessment at age 14-16
Explore CTED programs
Research trade schools and community colleges
Build life skills curriculum
Plan for supported employment if appropriate

C. For Homeschooling Families

Curriculum Development:

Year-Round Planning:

Q1 (July-Sept): Plan annual curriculum, order materials
Q2 (Oct-Dec): Assess progress, adjust as needed
Q3 (Jan-March): Mid-year evaluation, plan spring activities
Q4 (April-June): Testing, prepare for next year

Record Keeping:

Maintain portfolio of work samples
Document field trips and educational experiences
Track hours (not required but helpful)
Keep reading logs
Save completed assignments

Community Resources:

Join ESA homeschool co-ops
Participate in field trip groups
Share vendor/tutor recommendations
Attend ESA Parent Advisory Committee meetings

Compliance Focus:

Ensure coverage of five core subjects
Document spending in each subject area
Keep curriculum current and detailed
Maintain organized ClassWallet records

D. For Families Using Private Schools

School Selection Criteria:

Educational Fit:

Academic philosophy alignment
Special education support (if needed)
Class sizes
Teacher credentials
Curriculum approach

ESA Compatibility:

Registered as ClassWallet vendor (preferred)
Experience with ESA families
Clear invoicing practices
Reasonable payment timelines
Transparent fee structure

Financial Considerations:

Total cost vs. ESA award
Payment schedule compatibility with quarterly funding
Additional fees beyond tuition
Scholarship opportunities (non-STO)

Red Flags:

Requests to hold debit card
Asks for ClassWallet login
Requests disclosure of award amount
Unclear or changing fee structures
Resistance to providing proper invoices

Relationship Management:

Provide only necessary information
Use Pay Vendor for all tuition payments
Keep copies of all invoices
Communicate payment timelines early
Address issues promptly

XVII. COMMON SCENARIOS & SOLUTIONS

A. Scenario: Mid-Year Public School to ESA Transition

Situation: Student currently in public school (October), family wants to transition to ESA

Action Plan:

Apply immediately - Don't wait for semester end
Obtain required documents while still enrolled (IEP/MET if special ed)
Submit complete application - 30-day processing begins
Upon approval: Sign contract immediately
Withdraw from public school only after ClassWallet is funded (3-5 weeks after signing)
Begin ESA spending - Q2 funding already distributed, access Q3 funds in January

Financial Impact:

Q1 funds: Not available (student was in public school July-Sept)
Q2 funds: Available if contract signed before December 31
Q3-Q4 funds: Full amount available
Total year 1: Approximately 50-75% of annual award

Key Considerations:

Cannot spend ESA funds while enrolled in public school as Payer Code 1
Must completely withdraw from public school district
Summer school at public school triggers violation if enrolled before withdrawal

B. Scenario: Concurrent Public School Class Enrollment

Situation: ESA student wants to take one class at local public high school (e.g., chemistry lab)

Proper Process:

Contact public school - Ask if they accept ESA students for individual classes
Specify Tuition Payer Code 2 - Critical enrollment status
Obtain itemized invoice from school showing:

Student name
Class description
Tuition amount for that class only
School contact information

Pay via ClassWallet using invoice
Ensure student not enrolled in public school's student information system as regular student

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Enrolling as full-time public school student (Payer Code 1)
Not obtaining proper invoice
Taking multiple classes without proper documentation
Accepting "free" public school enrollment (violates ESA contract)

Consequence of Improper Enrollment: Account termination and repayment of entire year's ESA funds

C. Scenario: Therapy Provider Not Licensed in Arizona

Situation: Family finds excellent ABA therapist licensed in California but providing telehealth to Arizona student

Analysis:

Arizona requires licensure from Arizona or license verification
Out-of-state telehealth providers must comply with Arizona regulations
Some therapy boards have reciprocity agreements

Solutions:

Check Arizona licensure - Many providers maintain multiple state licenses
Verify compact agreements - Some professions have interstate compacts
Request pre-approval via ESA Support Ticket with:

Provider's out-of-state license
Explanation of why this provider necessary
Confirmation provider is compliant with Arizona telehealth laws

Consider alternative: Find Arizona-licensed provider offering similar services

Best Practice: Prioritize Arizona-licensed providers to avoid complications

D. Scenario: Private School Tuition Exceeds ESA Award

Situation: Special ed student with $28,000 ESA award, private school tuition is $35,000

Funding Options:

ESA funds: $28,000 toward tuition
Family contribution: $7,000 out-of-pocket
Private scholarships: Non-STO scholarships (allowed)
School financial aid: If school offers (not STO-based)
Payment plan: Negotiate with school

Payment Strategy:

Use all four quarterly ESA disbursements toward tuition
Family pays difference directly to school
School invoice should show total tuition and payments from all sources
For ESA reimbursement: Submit invoice showing ESA-eligible portion

Important: Cannot accept STO scholarship in same fiscal year as ESA contract

E. Scenario: ClassWallet Debit Card Declined at Educational Vendor

Situation: Debit card declined at bookstore; purchase is allowable expense

Possible Causes:

Insufficient funds in ClassWallet account
MCC restriction - Vendor's merchant category code is blocked
Transaction limit - Daily/weekly limits exceeded
Card not activated or expired
Incorrect PIN entered

Immediate Solutions:

Check balance - Log into ClassWallet, verify funds available
Verify MCC - Contact ClassWallet to check if vendor's MCC is blocked
Alternative payment: Pay out-of-pocket, submit for reimbursement
Contact ClassWallet: 1-877-969-5536 for technical support

Long-term Solutions:

If MCC is blocked but vendor sells allowable items: Submit ESA Support Ticket requesting MCC approval
Use Pay Vendor or Marketplace when possible to avoid MCC issues
Keep personal credit card as backup for reimbursement method

F. Scenario: Changing Disability Classification Mid-Year

Situation: Student classified as SLD ($12,000 award), new evaluation shows ASD ($28,000 award) in January

Process:

Obtain new evaluation from public school or qualified examiner
Submit ESA Support Ticket with complete evaluation attached
Request classification update
ADE reviews (1-3 weeks typical processing)
New contract issued reflecting updated classification and funding
Sign new contract immediately
Funding adjustment appears in Q3 (January funding)

Financial Impact:

Q1-Q2: Received $6,000 (SLD rate for 6 months)
Q3-Q4: Receive remaining at ASD rate: $22,000
Total Year 1: $28,000 (full ASD annual award, prorated)
Year 2 and beyond: Full $28,000 annually

Important: Not all re-classifications increase funding; some may decrease based on new category

G. Scenario: Student Graduates High School with $15,000 Remaining Balance

Situation: Student graduates in May, has $15,000 unused ESA funds

Options:

Exited Contract - Can use funds for postsecondary education for up to 4 years
Allowable uses:

Community college tuition and fees
University tuition (AZ Board of Regents schools)
Accredited private postsecondary tuition
Required textbooks
Course-related fees

Quarterly documentation still required if using debit card
Cannot use for: Room, board, meals, non-academic expenses

Process:

Notify ESA program of graduation
Receive Exited contract
Sign Exited contract
Continue using funds per program rules
Funds remain available until depleted or 4 years post-graduation

H. Scenario: Identity Theft - Unauthorized ClassWallet Transactions

Situation: Account holder discovers unauthorized transactions on ClassWallet debit card

Immediate Actions (First 24 Hours):

Contact ClassWallet: 1-877-969-5536 - Report fraud, freeze card
Document transactions: Screenshot all unauthorized charges
Contact ADE: ESACallCenter@azed.gov - Report suspected fraud
File police report - Obtain case number
Dispute charges with ClassWallet fraud department

Follow-Up Actions (Days 2-7):

Submit ESA Support Ticket with:

Description of fraud
Screenshots of unauthorized transactions
Police report copy
Timeline of discovery

Request new card through ClassWallet
Review all transactions from past 90 days
Change passwords for ClassWallet and ESA Portal

Protection from Liability:

If identity theft documented, not responsible for repayment
Must cooperate with investigation
May need affidavit of fraud
Account will not be suspended/terminated for verified fraud

XVIII. VENDOR & PROVIDER DIRECTORY GUIDANCE

A. Finding Qualified Providers

Private Schools:

Arizona School Choice: azschoice.com (directory of private schools)
National Association of Private Schools: member directories
Local ESA parent groups: Facebook groups, co-ops
ClassWallet vendor directory: Schools registered for ESA payments

Tutors & Teachers:

Wyzant, Care.com, Tutor.com: Online platforms (verify credentials)
Local homeschool co-ops: Member recommendations
University education departments: Student teachers, recent graduates
Retired teachers: Often available for private tutoring
ClassWallet vendor list: Pre-verified credentials

Therapists (Special Education):

Arizona Department of Health Services: License verification
Psychology Today: Provider directory with specialties
Autism Society of Greater Phoenix: Provider recommendations
FEAT (Families for Effective Autism Treatment): ABA provider lists
Insurance provider directories: Many accept ESA + insurance

Online Programs:

Time4Learning, IXL, Khan Academy, Outschool
Teaching Textbooks, Saxon Math
Discovery K12, Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
Verify individual subscriptions available

B. Vetting Providers - Due Diligence Checklist

For All Providers:

[ ] Verify credentials/licenses current and valid
[ ] Check reviews from other ESA families
[ ] Confirm experience with student's age/needs
[ ] Verify ClassWallet registration status
[ ] Confirm invoice/payment procedures
[ ] Check BBB rating (for businesses)
[ ] Request references
[ ] Verify insurance coverage (for therapists/facilities)

For Private Schools:

[ ] Visit campus, observe classes
[ ] Review curriculum and teaching philosophy
[ ] Meet teachers and administrators
[ ] Ask about ESA experience and family count
[ ] Review fee schedule comprehensively
[ ] Understand admission/withdrawal policies
[ ] Check student-teacher ratios
[ ] Review disciplinary policies
[ ] Understand special education support (if applicable)

For Therapists:

[ ] Verify state licensure (not just certification)
[ ] Check for disciplinary actions via state board
[ ] Confirm experience with student's specific needs
[ ] Request treatment approach explanation
[ ] Discuss goals and progress measurement
[ ] Clarify cancellation policies and fees
[ ] Understand documentation provided
[ ] Verify ability to coordinate with other providers

Red Flags:

Refusal to provide credentials
Requests for full payment in advance
Lack of clear policies
Poor communication
Credential issues or expiring licenses
No professional liability insurance
Pressure tactics or urgency
Requests for access to ESA account

XIX. ANNUAL PROGRAM CYCLE

A. Fiscal Year Timeline

Q1: July - September (Planning & Setup)

Key Activities:

New applications processed (peak season)
Contracts signed (new and renewals)
ClassWallet accounts funded (July 15-31)
School year begins (early August typically)
Annual curriculum planning
Private school enrollment deadlines

Action Items:

Apply early in July if new to program
Sign renewal contracts immediately
Enroll in private schools before deadlines
Order curriculum and materials
Schedule therapy assessments
Plan annual budget and spending

Q2: October - December (Adjustment & Rhythm)

Key Activities:

Q2 funding (October 15-31)
Funding adjustments occur for Q2 contracts
Mid-fall assessments
Holiday break planning
Year-end spending decisions

Action Items:

Review Q1 spending and adjust budget
Submit Q1 debit card receipts by October 31
Address any funding adjustment surprises
Schedule winter therapy sessions
Purchase holiday educational gifts
Begin planning for Q3 expenses

Q3: January - March (Mid-Year Evaluation)

Key Activities:

Q3 funding (January 15-31)
Mid-year student assessments
Spring enrollment planning
Testing season preparation (AP, SAT, ACT)

Action Items:

Evaluate curriculum effectiveness
Submit Q2 debit card receipts by January 31
Schedule mid-year evaluations/IEP updates
Register for spring/summer programs
Order testing prep materials
Plan summer educational activities

Q4: April - June (Year-End & Transition)

Key Activities:

Q4 funding (April 15-30)
Renewal contracts sent (May typically)
Year-end assessments
Summer planning
Final spending before fiscal year ends

Action Items:

Ensure all core subjects addressed
Submit Q3 debit card receipts by April 30
Sign renewal contract for next year
Complete required testing
Finalize summer schedules
Submit Q4 receipts by July 31
Evaluate year's successes and needed changes

B. Multi-Year Planning Strategies

Year 1 (Establishment):

Focus: Learning program, establishing routines
Goals: Find quality providers, effective curriculum
Spending: May underspend as you learn system
Strategy: Conservative, build knowledge

Years 2-3 (Optimization):

Focus: Refine approach, maximize effectiveness
Goals: Optimize provider mix, improve outcomes
Spending: More strategic, better allocation
Strategy: Use data from Year 1 to improve

Years 4+ (Maturity):

Focus: Long-term planning, college prep
Goals: Build skills for independence, transitions
Spending: Strategic rollover planning
Strategy: Accumulate funds for major expenses

High School Planning (Grades 9-12):

Dual enrollment strategy (begin Grade 10)
AP/SAT/ACT preparation (Grade 11)
College application support (Grade 12)
Vocational exploration (ongoing)
Accumulated funds for intensive senior year prep

Special Education Extended Planning (Ages 18-22):

Transition assessment (age 14-16)
Vocational training (ages 18-20)
Life skills intensive (ages 20-22)
Supported employment preparation
Independent living skills development

XX. RESOURCES & CONTACT INFORMATION

A. Primary Program Contacts

Arizona Department of Education - ESA Program

Website: azed.gov/esa
Email: ESACallCenter@azed.gov
Phone: 602-364-1969
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (some evening hours - check website)
Mail: 1535 W. Jefferson Street, Bin #41, Phoenix, AZ 85007
ESA Support Ticket: Via ESA Parent Portal
Executive Director: John Ward

ClassWallet (Financial Platform)

Phone: 1-877-969-5536
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM EST; Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM EST
Email: help@classwallet.com
Help Center: classwallet.my.site.com/classwallet/s/
Website: classwallet.com

Arizona State Board of Education (Appeals)

Website: azsbe.az.gov/empowerment-scholarship-account-esa-program
Phone: 602-542-5057
Address: 1535 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Appeals: Submit via website or mail

Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide

Website: azoca.gov
Phone: 602-277-7292
Toll-free: 1-800-872-2879
Complaint Form: Available on website

B. Special Education Resources

ADE Exceptional Student Services

Phone: 602-542-4013
Website: azed.gov/specialeducation
Topics: IDEA, IEPs, evaluations, equitable services

Arizona Statewide Parent Information Network (AzSPN)

Phone: 602-265-4868
Website: azspn.com
Services: Free training and support for special ed families

Pilot Parents of Southern Arizona

Phone: 520-324-3150
Website: pilotparents.org
Services: Special education advocacy and support

Raising Special Kids

Phone: 602-242-4366 (Phoenix); 520-773-0179 (Flagstaff)
Website: raisingspecialkids.org
Services: Parent training, resources, support

C. Legal & Statutory Resources

Arizona Revised Statutes (ESA Statutes):

A.R.S. §15-2401 (Definitions)
A.R.S. §15-2401.01 (Qualified student definition; expansion)
A.R.S. §15-2402 (ESA accounts; funds)
A.R.S. §15-2403 (Administration; appeals; audits; rules)
A.R.S. §15-2404 (State control over nonpublic schools; prohibition)
A.R.S. §15-2405 (Parent oversight committee)
A.R.S. §15-2406 (Quarterly reports)

Available at: azleg.gov (Arizona State Legislature website)

Arizona Administrative Code (ESA Rules):

R7-2-1501 through R7-2-1511
Available at: azsos.gov (Arizona Secretary of State - Administrative Rules)

Handbook:

2025-2026 ESA Parent Handbook: azed.gov/sites/default/files/2025/06/ESA%202025-2026%20Handbook.pdf

D. Community & Support Groups

Facebook Groups:

"Arizona ESA Families"
"Arizona ESA Homeschoolers"
"Arizona ESA Special Needs Support"
Search "Arizona ESA" for local and specific-interest groups

ESA Parent Advisory Committee:

Information: azed.gov/esa/esa-parent-advisory-committee
Purpose: Provide feedback to ADE on ESA policies
Meetings: At least 3 times per academic year
Application: Available on website

Homeschool Organizations:

Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE): afhe.org
Catholic Homeschoolers of AZ: azcatholic homeschool.com
Local co-ops: Search by city/region

E. Helpful Tools & Forms

Available at azed.gov/esa/esa-support:

Application checklist
Parent-provided curriculum template
Tutoring/teaching services business attestation form
Affidavit of shared residence
FAQ documents (by topic)
MCC code list
Vendor registration information
Sample invoices and receipts
Video tutorials

XXI. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Financial Questions

Q: What happens to unused funds at the end of the year? A: Unused funds automatically roll over to the next fiscal year. They remain in your account as long as your student is eligible for ESA.

Q: Can I use ESA funds from one child to pay for another child's expenses? A: No. Each ESA is for that specific student only. However, you can purchase allowable items that one student uses, and later those items can be used by ESA siblings.

Q: How do I check my current balance? A: Log into your ClassWallet account. Your dashboard shows your current available balance, pending transactions, and spending history.

Q: What if my private school costs more than my ESA award? A: You can supplement with personal funds. The school should invoice you for the total amount, and you pay what you can from ESA, with the remainder from personal funds.

Q: Can I pay myself to homeschool my child? A: No. Account holders and the ESA student cannot be paid with ESA funds under any circumstances.

Application & Eligibility Questions

Q: How long does the application process take? A: 30 days from submission of a complete application. If documents are missing, you'll receive notification and have 30 additional days to submit them, followed by another 30-day review.

Q: Can I apply mid-school year? A: Yes. You can apply any time during the fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). You'll receive prorated funding for remaining quarters.

Q: What if my child doesn't have a disability but has an IEP? A: If your child has an IEP from an Arizona public school, they qualify as a student with a disability under ESA, even if you don't believe the disability significantly impacts their learning.

Q: Can preschool students apply? A: Yes, if they have a disability and are ages 3-5 (or within 90 days of third birthday) with a current MET, IEP, or 504 plan.

Q: We're moving to Arizona. When can we apply? A: You must be Arizona residents at the time of application. Establish residency first, then apply with Arizona residency documentation.

Program Rules Questions

Q: Can my child attend public school part-time and use ESA? A: Yes, but only for individual classes as Tuition Payer Code 2. Your child cannot be enrolled as a regular public school student (Payer Code 1).

Q: Can we accept a scholarship from our private school? A: Yes, if it's a private scholarship from the school or a non-profit organization. You cannot accept School Tuition Organization (STO) or tax credit scholarships in the same fiscal year as ESA.

Q: Do I need to file a homeschool affidavit if I homeschool using ESA? A: No. You must NOT file a homeschool affidavit. Your ESA contract serves as proof your child is being educated.

Q: What testing is required? A: No state-mandated testing is required for ESA students. However, you must spend ESA funds on reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science annually.

Q: Can we travel internationally for educational purposes? A: You can use ESA funds for educational programs, but NOT for travel expenses, lodging, or meals. The program itself must be allowable (e.g., language immersion program tuition).

Special Education Questions

Q: Will my child lose their IEP if we leave public school for ESA? A: Your child's IEP eligibility doesn't expire, but the public school no longer has an obligation to provide most services. The IEP document remains valid for determining ESA disability classification.

Q: Can we still get speech therapy from our public school? A: Possibly. Students attending non-profit private schools or homeschooling may be eligible for limited equitable services. Contact your district's special education office.

Q: How do I prove my child needs a weighted blanket or sensory items? A: Provide documentation from your child's IEP, MET, 504 plan, IEE, or a letter from a qualified examiner, service provider, or certified special education teacher indicating the need.

Q: Can I use ESA for my child's medical needs? A: Only if they're educational in nature. Medical services, devices, and supplies are generally not allowable, except educational therapies from licensed practitioners and items supporting educational needs.

Q: What if my child ages out of a disability category? A: At age 10, Developmental Delay classification expires. Have your child re-evaluated for another disability category if appropriate. Without re-evaluation, they continue in ESA but at general education funding rates.

ClassWallet & Payment Questions

Q: Why was my debit card declined? A: Common reasons: insufficient funds, restricted merchant category code (MCC), daily limit exceeded, card not activated, or incorrect PIN. Contact ClassWallet at 1-877-969-5536.

Q: How long does reimbursement take? A: Typically 5-10 business days after approval. Ensure your bank account is linked and verified in ClassWallet.

Q: What if I forget to upload receipts by the deadline? A: You have a 15-day grace period after ADE notifies you. After that, your debit card will be deactivated and you may need to repay those expenses.

Q: Can I have multiple debit cards for different family members? A: Each ESA student has one debit card. You cannot have multiple cards per student. If you have multiple ESA children, each has their own card.

Q: What if a vendor isn't registered with ClassWallet? A: You can pay with your debit card or out-of-pocket (reimbursement), or encourage the vendor to register at classwallet.com.

XXII. CONCLUSION & STRATEGIC SUMMARY

Key Success Factors

1. Documentation Discipline

Maintain organized record-keeping system
Upload receipts immediately after purchases
Meet all quarterly deadlines without exception
Keep copies of all important documents for 2+ years

2. Strategic Planning

Plan annual budget across all four quarters
Build rollover reserves for large future expenses
Diversify spending across educational approaches
Re-evaluate and adjust quarterly

3. Compliance Vigilance

Understand and follow all program rules
Never commingle ESA with prohibited activities (public school, STO scholarships)
Submit complete invoices and receipts
Respond promptly to ADE communications

4. Provider Relationships

Vet all providers thoroughly before engagement
Maintain professional boundaries
Protect personal and financial information
Document all services received

5. Continuous Improvement

Assess student progress regularly
Adjust curriculum and services based on results
Participate in ESA community for shared learning
Stay informed of program updates

Maximizing Value for Special Education Students

The ESA program offers unprecedented flexibility and funding for special education students in Arizona. To maximize benefits:

Obtain comprehensive evaluations every 3 years to ensure proper classification
Stack services strategically - combine therapies, tutoring, and curriculum for comprehensive support
Build provider networks - develop relationships with quality licensed therapists and specialists
Document thoroughly - maintain clear records of needs, recommendations, and progress
Plan long-term - use fund rollovers to prepare for intensive high school and transition years
Leverage all resources - combine ESA with insurance, equitable services, and community supports

The disability funding premium ($8,000-$43,000 vs. $6,000-$7,500 for general education) represents a significant state investment in your child's specialized educational needs. Strategic utilization of these funds can dramatically improve educational outcomes and life trajectory.

Final Recommendations

For Optimal ESA Experience:

✓ Apply early (July) for maximum funding access ✓ Document everything immediately - don't let receipts pile up ✓ Use Pay Vendor for tuition and registered providers when possible ✓ Build relationships with quality private schools and service providers ✓ Join ESA communities for support and shared knowledge ✓ Stay informed - read ADE emails, check website regularly ✓ Plan quarterly - don't spend all funds early in year ✓ Protect your account - never share login credentials ✓ Respond promptly to ADE requests for information ✓ Think long-term - this is a marathon, not a sprint

The ESA program represents a powerful tool for educational customization and family empowerment. Used strategically and compliantly, it can transform your child's educational experience and outcomes.

APPENDICES

Appendix A: Quick Reference Tables

Disability Categories & Approximate Funding (2024-25)

Category	Code	Approx. Annual Funding
Autism Spectrum Disorder	ASD	$28,000
Multiple Disabilities - Severe Sensory	MD-SS	$25,000-$43,000
Emotional Disability	ED	$20,000-$25,000
Intellectual Disability	ID	$18,000-$22,000
Multiple Disabilities	MD	$18,000-$22,000
Traumatic Brain Injury	TBI	$18,000-$25,000
Visual/Hearing Impairment	VI/HI	$20,000-$30,000
Orthopedic Impairment	OI	$15,000-$20,000
Other Health Impairment	OHI	$12,000-$18,000
Specific Learning Disability	SLD	$10,000-$15,000
Speech/Language Impairment	SLI	$8,000-$12,000
Developmental Delay (ages 3-9)	DD	$8,000-$15,000
Preschool Severe Delay	PSD	$8,000-$15,000

Important Deadlines Tracker

Action	Deadline	Consequence of Missing
Q1 debit card receipts	October 31	15-day grace, then card deactivation
Q2 debit card receipts	January 31	15-day grace, then card deactivation
Q3 debit card receipts	April 30	15-day grace, then card deactivation
Q4 debit card receipts	July 31	15-day grace, then card deactivation
Appeal suspension	15 business days from notice	Account termination
Appeal termination	30 calendar days from notice	Permanent closure
Renewal contract signing	Date specified in contract	Non-renewal, account closes
Reimbursement submissions	End of month after contract year	Cannot be reimbursed

Appendix B: Sample Budget Templates

Templates and additional resources available at: azed.gov/esa/esa-support

Appendix C: Acronyms & Definitions

Common ESA Acronyms:

ABA - Applied Behavior Analysis
ADE - Arizona Department of Education
AZOCA - Arizona Ombudsman-Citizens' Aide
BCBA - Board Certified Behavior Analyst
CTED - Career Technical Education District
ESA - Empowerment Scholarship Account
FERPA - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
IEE - Independent Educational Evaluation
IEP - Individualized Education Program
MCC - Merchant Category Code
MET - Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team
OT - Occupational Therapy
PT - Physical Therapy
SBE - State Board of Education
SLD - Specific Learning Disability
SLP - Speech-Language Pathologist
STO - School Tuition Organization

Document Version: 2025-2026 School Year Last Updated: October 2025 Source Materials: ADE ESA Parent Handbook 2025-2026, Arizona Revised Statutes, Arizona Administrative Code

Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Families should refer to official ADE documentation and consult with appropriate professionals for specific situations. Program rules and policies are subject to change by legislation, administrative rule, or court decision.

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Friday, October 17, 2025

ESA GUIDE for Parents: Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA)

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