This article is intended for parents interested in applying for the Wyoming ESA Program
As a participant in the Wyoming ESA program, you must comply with all program rules and fulfill your responsibilities as an account holder. Below is an overview of key responsibilities. This is a summary only. Your responsibilities are explicitly set out in the ESA contract. If there is any conflict or discrepancy between this manual and the contract, the contract controls.
Use Funds Only for Qualified Expenses
ESA funds must be used solely for the educational benefit of the designated student. Unauthorized use of funds may lead to account closure.
Maintain Records
Keep receipts and records of all transactions made using ESA funds. The WDE may request documentation during routine audits.
Compliance with ESA Program Rules & Parent Agreement
Parents and Educational Service Providers attest to compliance with all ESA Program rules, procedures, and assurances. Reference the Assurances and the handbook for any questions regarding program compliance.
Curriculum Requirements
Ensure that your child is receiving instruction in required subjects including reading, writing, mathematics, civics (U.S. Constitution and Wyoming Constitution), history, literature, and science. Pre-kindergarten students must receive kindergarten readiness instruction.
Participation in Annual Assessment
Your child must participate in annual state or nationally recognized norm-referenced assessments. Failure to comply may result in disqualification from the ESA program. Students in grades 3-10 may take the state assessment at their local school or participate in an approved, nationally recognized norm-referenced achievement exam in the grades it is administered. Student results from an annual assessment or documentation from the selected assessment vendor confirming the ESA student’s completion of the assessment will be shared with the WDE by June 30 for the current school year. If assessment results or documentation are not uploaded by the deadline, the ESA student may not be eligible for continued participation in the ESA program the following year.