Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship
Special Education Services at No Cost to Families
About the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship
The Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship, established by the State of Ohio in 2012, provides families of children with disabilities real educational choice. It enables parents to select and fund specialized private or alternative public programs—outside of their home district—that can deliver the services outlined in their child's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Quick Application
Scan our QR code or call us directly to begin the Jon Peterson Scholarship application process.
Now Enrolling
We're currently accepting applications for Ohio homeschooling families seeking special education services.
- Licensed Intervention Specialist
- Jon Peterson Provider
- No Out-of-Pocket Costs
Key Features of the Jon Peterson Scholarship
Eligibility
Children from kindergarten through age 21 (and up to age 22 if graduation requirements are unmet) with a finalized IEP generated from their public school district are eligible to apply.
Usage of Funds
Scholarship funds may be used to cover tuition and services at approved private or alternative public providers that implement the child's IEP—or additional services agreed upon by both the provider and family.
Funding Amount
Scholarships are awarded based on the student's primary disability category as identified in the Evaluation Team Report (ETR). Awards typically range from $9,500 to over $32,000 for the 2024–2025 year.
Capacity Cap
The program is capped such that scholarships cannot exceed 5% of the total number of Ohio students with disabilities. If demand exceeds availability, a lottery system may be used.
Application Process
Applications are continuous year-round. Families must select a participating provider, who then submits the application on their behalf.
Renewal
Scholarships must be renewed annually. As long as the student continues to be eligible under IDEA and maintains a current IEP, families may submit a renewal for the subsequent year.
How to Apply for the Jon Peterson Scholarship
Follow these 7 simple steps to get started with the Jon Peterson Scholarship application process:
Confirm Eligibility
- Your child must have a current IEP (Individualized Education Program) from your public school district.
- Your child must be an Ohio resident.
Choose a Provider
- Select a state-approved Jon Peterson Provider (like The Reading Roost Educational Services).
- Providers are licensed and registered with the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce (ODEW).
Notify Your School District
- Tell your child's public school that you plan to use the Jon Peterson Scholarship.
- The district will continue to manage and update your child's IEP.
Complete the Parent Forms
- Your provider will give you the Parent Agreement Form and other documents.
- Sign the forms so the provider can apply on your behalf.
Gather Required Documents
Provide the following to your provider:
- Copy of your child's IEP
- Proof of Ohio residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Copy of your child's birth certificate
- Any additional forms your provider requests
Provider Submits the Application
- Your provider submits everything online through the ODEW portal.
- Parents do not submit the application themselves.
Approval & Services Begin
- Once approved, your provider bills the state directly.
- You do NOT pay out of pocket—services are fully covered by the scholarship.
The Reading Roost is a Certified Jon Peterson Provider
Licensed & Registered with the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce, The Reading Roost Educational Services accepts 100% of the Jon Peterson Scholarship as full payment for services.
What This Means for Your Family:
- No out-of-pocket costs - Services fully covered
- Individualized support - Tailored to your child's IEP
- Experienced specialist - Robin Rice, Licensed Intervention Specialist
- Flexible options - In-person, virtual, or blended services
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us to begin the Jon Peterson Scholarship application process:
Understanding the Special Education Evaluation Process
What Families Are Saying
Real stories from families whose children have thrived with The Reading Roost
"Thank you so much for all of your help with our IEP. We are so lucky to have you on our side. Good luck at your new position. We wish you the best!"
"You have inspired her to write stories and enjoy the act of writing. We truly appreciate all you have done for our family. Merry Christmas!"
"This is so bittersweet! I am so thrilled for you and your new opportunity. I have learned so much from you and enjoyed many laughs. You make every place brighter!"
"You saved the day! Thank you for teaching me and sharing your valuable expertise! All the best."