This article is intended for vendors interested in applying for the Wyoming ESA Program
What is an Education Service Provider (ESP)?
An Education Service Provider (ESP) is a Wyoming ESA-approved person, organization, or school that receives ESA funds to provide educational goods and services to ESA students.
Who Can Become an ESP?
- Eligible Entities: Private educational institutions, tutors, educational centers, specialized educational services, and supplemental programs.
- Restrictions: Immediate family members (parents, step-parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, step-siblings, half-siblings, and first cousins) cannot serve as ESPs.
- Public School Participation: Public and charter schools may offer tuition-based individual courses under a formal contract but cannot claim ADM for these students.
- Location Requirements: ESPs do not need to be located in Wyoming and can provide virtual services from anywhere.
How to Apply to Become an ESP
The process varies based on provider type:
- Schools or Pre-K Childcare Facilities Charging Tuition and Fees: Email wde-esa@wyo.gov to obtain a custom registration link.
- All Other Education Service Providers and Vendors: Complete an application through the Wyoming ESA portal.
Required Information for Application
Applicants must provide:
- Provider details
- Licenses and certifications
- Description of services offered
- Agreement to assurances and acknowledgments
Certification Process and Status Levels
- Provisional Status: Granted upon initial approval, allowing services while awaiting full certification.
- Full Certification: Earned after a successful assurance compliance review.
- Ongoing Compliance: ESPs must complete annual surveys and may undergo audits.
- Certification Review: Conducted during the first year of service.
- Exemption for Vendors: Vendors selling only supplies, equipment, or materials are exempt from certification requirements.
Financial Requirements
- Surety Bond Requirement: ESPs receiving or expecting to receive over $150,000 annually in ESA funds must file a surety bond.
- Failure to Secure a Surety Bond: This may result in suspension and disqualification.
Maintaining ESP Status
- Registering Multiple Locations: Each location requires a separate application and email.
- Updating Services: ESPs must update the portal immediately if they can no longer provide the listed services.
- Maintaining Contact Information: Updates must be made within the portal.
- Finding Updates: Notifications are posted on the Wyoming ESA website.
- Support Contacts: Phone, email, and chat support are available through the Wyoming ESA Portal and wde-esa@wyo.gov.