How to gift an app

Can you still (and how do you) gift an app?

We are running into issues and are unable to use the process we've used in the past.

I work for a public school and can access a state grant to get communication apps for students who are graduating. We would typically "gift" the app to the student's/parent's apple account. We are not allowed to purchase gift cards and give to families so that's not an option.

Thank you for your help!