Nativity of Our Savior Catholic School

In May of 2011, the Indiana general assembly passed HB1003, otherwise known as the School Choice program or voucher program.  This bill provides some families the opportunity to send their children to a school of their choice.  The families that qualify under HB1003 will be able to choose to send their children to a non-public school that has been accepted into the state program, regardless of religious or charter affiliation, using state funds.  Nativity of Our Savior School has applied to be a School Choice education provider.

What is the School Choice program?

The School Choice program provides scholarships to students of lower income families that reside in Indiana.  These scholarships offer opportunities to families to choose the best educational setting for their children by using a portion of the state funds allocated for their children to pay for tuition and fees associated with non-public schools, including those that are faith based.

Who is eligible to participate?

Students that have attended 2 consecutive semesters of public school during the 2010-2011 school year and who will be entering grades 2-12 may be eligible to apply for a scholarship.  Families who fall below the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Income Guidelines are eligible to receive a voucher or scholarship for 90% of state tuition support. (This income level is about $40,000 for a family of 4.)

Families that fall below 150% of the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Income Guidelines are eligible to receive a voucher or scolarship for 50% of the state tuition support.(This income level is about $60,000 for a family of 4.)

How does a parent or legal guardian apply for a scholarship for their children?

Parents or guardians who want to send their children to a non-public school and who believe they meet the income level guidelines may apply for a scholarship at the non-public school of their choice.  First, parents/guardians contact the non-public school to find out if the school has been accepted to participate in the program.  Second, the children must be admitted to the non-public school by way of the non-public school admissions process.  Third the parents/guardians will meet with non-public school staff to provide proper documentation and complete a scholarship state application.  

For more information regarding this program and Nativity of Our Savior School, please e-mail the principal, Kemberly Markham, at principal@nativitystars.info or go to http://www.doe.in.gov/schoolchoice.