Understanding Tennessee’s Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program
- Kathryn DuBray, DSW, LMSW

- May 12
- 2 min read

At Anniston Academy, we understand that every child learns differently and that some students benefit from educational environments specifically designed around their unique strengths, challenges, communication styles, and support needs. We are proud to accept Tennessee’s Individualized Education Account (IEA) Program to help families access more individualized educational opportunities for their children.
The Individualized Education Account, commonly referred to as the IEA Program, is a Tennessee scholarship program designed specifically for eligible students with disabilities. Through the program, qualifying students may receive state-funded educational scholarships that families can use toward approved educational expenses, including private school tuition at participating schools like Anniston Academy.
The IEA Program was created to give families additional educational choices when a child’s needs may not be fully met in a traditional educational setting. The program allows families greater flexibility in selecting educational environments and services that align with their child’s individual learning profile and developmental needs.
Eligible students may include children with qualifying disabilities such as:
Autism Spectrum Disorder,
Intellectual Disability,
Developmental Delay,
Hearing or Visual Impairments,
Orthopedic Impairments,
Traumatic Brain Injury,
and other qualifying educational disabilities identified through an active IEP in accordance with Tennessee program requirements.
The IEA Program can often help families offset expenses related to:
private school tuition,
specialized educational programming,
approved therapies and supports,
instructional materials,
tutoring,
and other qualifying educational expenses.
At Anniston Academy, we are committed to creating an environment where students feel safe, understood, supported, and capable of success. Our educational approach emphasizes:
individualized instruction,
emotional regulation,
communication development,
executive functioning support,
social growth,
sensory-informed practices,
and relationship-centered learning.
We recognize that many students with disabilities need more than academics alone. They need environments that understand sensory needs, emotional regulation, communication differences, executive functioning challenges, and the importance of individualized support. Our goal is to help students build confidence, independence, meaningful relationships, and a positive connection with learning.
We also know that navigating special education services, scholarships, and eligibility requirements can feel overwhelming for families. Our team works closely with families to help them better understand the enrollment process and available educational funding opportunities, including the IEA Program.
Anniston Academy is honored to serve students and families utilizing the Tennessee Individualized Education Account Program and remains committed to providing a supportive, individualized educational experience where students are empowered to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and developmentally.
Families interested in learning more about the IEA Program, eligibility requirements, or enrollment opportunities at Anniston Academy are encouraged to contact us directly for additional information.

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