State auditors say it's time for lawmakers to decide whether to expand a scholarship program aimed at helping parents send their special-needs students to private institutions.

The Carson Smith Scholarship for Students with Special Needs helps families pay tuition for eligible students attending 39 approved private schools in Utah.

The law was put into place in 2005, with an audit report set for this year. State officials presented that audit to lawmakers Friday, indicating the program was in good standing with a lot of growth.

According to the audit, though some of the projections are speculative because of the newness of the program, there are signs of slowing in growth. In the program's initial year 108 students received scholarships. In the second year 361 students were awarded such grants — a 234 percent increase.

Auditors said they expect this year's growth to be around 49 percent, but in comparison with states that have long-established programs, additional increases in applicants can be expected down the road.

Officials recommend that the Legislature now determine whether to allow the program to grow, which would call for increased funding, or maintain the current size at an annual cost of $2.5 million a year.

The report indicates that most recipients of the scholarships find the program a success and the majority of parents are satisfied with the program and process.

According to an audit survey of around 50 parents, 91 percent of those who received scholarships indicated the private school was providing services. About 21 percent said the public schools were getting the job done.

"We are thrilled to see the results showing that parents are using the program and overwhelmingly satisfied — this is serving the need for which it was designed," said Elisa Clements, executive director for Parents for Choice in Education, a major supporter of the measure. "Our hope is that more families become aware of it as an option in case the public schools are not fitting their needs."

Auditors did find a gap in the law that allows students who no longer have a disability to continue to receive assistance during the three-year scholarship period. Officials recommend lawmakers clarify what should happen when a child no longer qualifies based on a disability.

"We concur with recommendation and stand ready to assist Legislature in any decision you have in future of the program," said Brenda Hales, state deputy superintendent.

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