Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA)

Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account program allows eligible families to use state education funding toward private-school tuition.

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Valley Lutheran is an approved ESA school through the Arizona Department of Education. For planning purposes, families may estimate approximately $7,900 in annual ESA funding, although the actual amount varies based on grade level, eligibility and state program requirements.

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To qualify for ESA funding, the student must reside in Arizona.​

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School Tuition Organizations (STOs)

School Tuition Organizations are nonprofit organizations that award scholarships funded through Arizona tax-credit donations.

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Valley Lutheran families work with approximately 15 different STOs. Each organization has its own application, deadlines and award process. Families are strongly encouraged to apply to multiple STOs as early as possible.

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During the 2025–2026 school year, Valley Lutheran families who applied to an average of six to seven STOs paid an average of $2,530 out of pocket, or approximately $253 per month when divided over 10 months.

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Our STO worksheet includes application links, deadlines and

important information to help families get started.

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Additional Scholarships

Depending on availability, some students may also qualify for need-based, merit-based or privately funded scholarships. Contact our Business Office to learn what additional opportunities may be available.​

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Free Financial Aid Workshops

Free online workshops are available through ACSTO. These sessions explain STO scholarships, ESA funding and the steps families can take to apply.

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Click here to learn more about Valley Lutheran's & ACSTO's Partnership 

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