Enacted as a Pilot Program 1999 • Expanded 2000 • Voucher
Florida’s John M. McKay Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program allows public
school students with disabilities or 504 plans to receive vouchers to attend private schools or
another public school.
Latest Stats (2012-13)
- Students participating: 23,011
- Schools participating: 1,102
- Average voucher value: $6,255
Program Details
Average voucher value as a percentage of
Florida’s total per-student spending ($8,863)
Student Funding
Vouchers are worth the same amount public schools would have spent on a participating child,
though they may not exceed the private school’s tuition and fees. Parents may supplement
vouchers with their own money.
Student Eligibility
Students with disabilities—who have Individualized Education Plans or a 504 plan—enrolled
in public school for at least one year are eligible. Section 504 protects qualified individuals with
disabilities, defined as persons with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits
one or more major life activities.
Legal Developments
No legal challenges have been filed against the program.
Rules & Regulations
- Income Limit: None
- Geographic Limit: Statewide
- Enrollment Cap: None
- Voucher Cap: Conditional
- Testing Mandates: None
Governing Statutes
Florida Statutes, Chapters 1002.39 and 1002.421
Friedman Contact
Stephanie Linn | stephanie@edchoice.org
Additional Links
McKay Quarterly Reports
