Other Tuition Assistance
At Bergman Academy, we know that your child's education is a big investment, but an independent school education may be more affordable than you think.
Students First ESA
Introduced by Governor Reynolds and signed into law on January 24, 2023, The Students First Act makes state funding available to support the success of every K-12 student in Iowa. The bill establishes a framework and funding for education savings accounts, which may be used by eligible families to cover tuition, fees, and other qualified education expenses at accredited private schools in Iowa.
The application process for the Student First ESA is in development now with plans to begin taking applications during the month of May, but a specific date has not yet been announced. Details regarding the application process will be provided later this month to help families prepare to apply.
Applications are due on June 30, 2023, for the 2023-2024 school year.
Applications are valid for one year; a family must apply annually to remain eligible for the program.
To find more information about eligibility, frequently asked questions and to apply, visit the Iowa Department of Education's Student's First ESA website.
Iowa 529s
529 Plans are an after-tax investment account that grows tax free if distributions are used toward qualified educational expenses. Iowa 529 accounts can be used to fund K-12 tuition for any accredited State of Iowa School, such as Bergman Academy.
Please speak with your accountant or financial planner for more information on the use of Iowa 529 accounts for tuition.
Transportation Reimbursement
Families with K-8 grade students who live more than 2 miles (one way) from school are potentially eligible to receive reimbursement for transportation expenses from their public school district.
Electronic filing for Des Moines Public Schools and digital forms for the surrounding school districts can be found on each school district's website and should be completed and mailed to your public school district twice a year.
Forms must be postmarked no later than December 1st and May 1st.
Iowa Tuition and Textbook Credit
Iowa families can claim a credit of up to $250 for tuition and textbook payments on their State of Iowa income tax return. Please speak with your accountant for more information on your specific tax situation and eligibility.
