This bill amends the education savings account (ESA) program in Iowa, establishing new requirements for qualified nonpublic schools and enhancing oversight of the program. It introduces several new subsections that mandate the Department of Education to notify school districts about resident students approved for the ESA program, report on tuition and fee schedules of qualified nonpublic schools, and require third-party entities to submit annual reports on ESA funding expenditures. Additionally, the bill stipulates that contracts with third-party administrators must be awarded through competitive bidding and ensures that personal information regarding students remains confidential.

The bill also defines "qualified nonpublic school" and outlines specific compliance requirements, including adherence to public school standards for accountability, data reporting, and teacher licensing. It requires these schools to report on admissions related to the ESA program, manage tuition increases within specified limits, and refund ESA funds if a student withdraws before the semester ends. Furthermore, the University of Northern Iowa is tasked with conducting an independent evaluation of the ESA program every five years, focusing on academic outcomes and participation trends.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 257.11B