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Dear Parents and Guardians,
I am writing to share some important information about tuition, tuition assistance and the impact of the Students First Act signed by Governor Reynolds earlier this week.
Regional staff continue to meet with administrators and pastors to determine tuition and teacher compensation. This collaborative process is focused on creating an individualized plan and budget for each school with the goal of matching public school teacher pay over the next five years. Tuition rates for the 2023-24 school year will continue to be communicated by each school.
I am pleased to share the newly released income guidelines which will determine tuition assistance eligibility for the coming year. Currently 37% of students across the region receive some form of tuition assistance. In the 2023-24 school year it is anticipated that nearly 50% may qualify given expanded guidelines. These increases are possible due to additional Catholic Tuition Organization (CTO) funds and the new Diocesan Tuition Assistance (DTA) established with the Ignite Campaign. The tuition assistance process requires just one application per household for both programs. The process opens February 1st and the deadline to apply is April 18, 2023. Use the chart below to determine if you meet current eligibility requirements.
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In addition to tuition assistance, a Catholic education is now more attainable given legislation passed this week. The Students First Act allows eligible families to direct $7,598 annually to the school of their choice to cover tuition and other qualifying educational expenses. All Iowa families will become eligible over the next three years. Please click here for details.
Many are wondering how this new legislation will impact tuition assistance. The process and timeframe for the distribution of ESA funds is still being determined, therefore it is imperative that families proceed with the tuition assistance process. Receiving tuition assistance does not affect ESA eligibility and can only help a family’s financial situation.
I am thankful for your support and optimistic about the future of Catholic education.
Sincerely,
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