NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) — Louisiana parents with school-age children can begin applying Saturday (March 1) for a new, state-funded scholarship program that will provide funds for private schooling, books, uniforms and other educational resources.
“I think it’s a good idea,” said Ronny Fontenberry, whose children attend public schools in New Orleans.
The state legislature created the LA Gator Scholarship Program last year. It will be administered by the Louisiana Department of Education.
Fontenberry said he would prefer his kids attended private school.
“I’d put them in a private school, yes, if I had say,” he said.
The Pelican Institute is a major supporter of the new program.
“We’re really excited to see this program launch. It’s been a long time coming,” said Erin Bendily, the Pelican Institute’s senior vice president. “This is going to be a very innovative, brand-new program for Louisiana families to be able to connect their child with a school or an educational program that best fits their needs.”
Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the schools by the state.
The education department said that for the 2025-26 school year, the award will be up to $15,253 (160% of Minimum Foundation Program Formula Average) for students identified as having a disability consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); $7,626 (80% of MFP) for students from a family with a total income at or below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines, and $5,243 (55% of MFP) for any other eligible students.
Critics say the program could kill some public schools.
“Public schools have nothing to worry about if they’re serving families well. Those families will want to stay there,” Bendily said. “But for families that need something different, their kids need something different, this program is a lifeline for those kids and those families.”
Some parents say they rely on public schools for their kids who have special needs, because many private schools do not provide such services.
“We know, historically, that we’ve had a problem with school choice, with them denying children with special needs. Literally telling parents, ‘This is not the educational environment for you and your child.’ That has been a problem with charter schools and is certainly a problem with private schools,” said Ashana Bigard, a parent and public-school advocate.
She said many families will suffer if programs are expanded with public funds that are not inclusive.
“When you talk about expanding those programs and less funding for public education, it’s going to leave a lot of children and families and communities just left out,” Bigard said.
Bendily said, “I’ve always told families, ‘Do what is best for your child.’ And in some cases, that may be their neighborhood public school … where their child is best served.”
Gov. Jeff Landry has included more than $93 million for the LA Gator Scholarship Program in his proposed budget. The actual number of scholarships this year will depend on how much money the legislature ultimately allocates for the program.
For more information and to apply for the program, click here. Applications must be submitted between March 1 and April 15.
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