What does STO mean in SCHOOLS

A School Tuition Organization (STO) is a non-profit organization that provides parents or guardians with scholarships for private school tuition. The donations are made to the STOs by individuals, businesses or organizations in the form of tax credits.

STOs issue scholarships to qualified students enrolled in Arizona private schools using donations made by businesses and individuals. These donations are eligible for tax credits and the money saved can be applied towards tuition costs at accredited private schools.

Funds distributed from an STO are awarded as scholarships to students attending private schools based on need and merit. Each Scholarship Award is issued directly to the student’s school of attendance, which then applies it towards the student's tuition fees.

Yes, there are income requirements that must be met in order to qualify for a scholarship from an STO. Generally, these requirements depend on family size and household income level. In certain cases, students may qualify regardless of their family's income level if they meet special qualifications such as being enrolled in a low-performing public school or having specific learning disabilities.

Anyone who pays Arizona Income Taxes or lives in Arizona can donate to an STO. Donations can be made directly through the organization’s website or through employers who offer a payroll deduction program. Businesses can also donate and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit up to $1100/year ($1000/year for single filers).

When you make a donation to an STO, you will receive a dollar-for-dollar state income tax credit that can be used against your taxes for the current year or carried forward up to five years into the future. The money donated goes directly into funding scholarships for qualified students attending accredited private schools throughout Arizona.

No, your donation does not have any strings attached; it simply means that you’ve made an investment in the future of Arizona children by providing them with access to quality education options at accredited private schools. Your contribution helps make education more accessible and provides families with more educational choices for their children.

Yes, accreditation is essential for participation in most School Tuition Organizations (STOs). All participating schools must meet minimum uniform standards set by the State Board of Education governing curriculum, faculty qualifications and other criteria set forth by state law before they are approved as participant schools within each respective organization.