The latest report on Indiana’s voucher program is out. Here are the highlights:

1. Record level of participation
The program saw its highest level of school participation to date. There are 373 schools participating now which is up from 357 the previous report. Student participation also increased, with a total of 76,067 students receiving scholarships.

2. Small Dip in Second Period Applications
While overall participation grew, the number of students applying during the second period saw a slight drop. Down by 5 students from the previous year.

Eligibility remains based on Indiana residency, age, and household income at or below 400% of the federal free/reduced lunch threshold. Award amounts continue to be based on 90% of what a student’s local public school would have received in state tuition support.

School vouchers continue to be s source of contention in not only Indiana but nationwide. Critics claim that voucher programs take money from traditional public schools and that many of the families using them can and would pay for their own tuition. However the current state and federal administration are in favor of voucher programs and have made them a priority for their terms.