Local lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials outside the classroom to apply for the state’s newly launched Career Scholarship Account program.
State Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville) said Hoosier students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades at a state accredited public or private school can receive up to $5,000 to access qualified training opportunities. About 1,000 spots are available for the 2023-2024 school year and students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until the Oct. 1 deadline.
“Hands-on opportunities teach young Hoosiers essential skills that prepare them for the next stages of their life,” Cash said. “This scholarship can help our students have a pathway to success, whether that’s entering the workforce upon graduation, pursuing additional training or attending college.”
State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) said Career Scholarship Accounts are available to high school students who are enrolled in a course or educational experience approved by the Indiana Department of Education. Eligible students may also be enrolled in an apprenticeship, applied learning experience, work-based learning and/or credential attainment experience approved by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.
“College isn’t for everyone and creating different avenues for students to find success is critical,” Genda said.”These new scholarships can help young Hoosiers identify their interests and start building skills so they can hit the ground running after graduating from high school.”
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
- Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, or programs of study;
- Career coaching and navigation services;
- Postsecondary education and training;
- Transportation and equipment;
- Certification and credentialing examinations; and
- Any other expenses approved by the Treasurer of the State.
According to State Rep. Donna Schaibley (R-Carmel), approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.
“I believe our local schools are doing a great job at skilling up our students and this program will help build on their efforts,” Schaibley said. “Career Scholarship Accounts can make a big difference, particularly for low-income students, who want to explore work experiences outside of the classroom but were limited due to the expense of transportation or other costs.”
State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) said the State Board of Education is also reviewing high school diploma requirements to provide more flexibility in a student’s schedule, so they can pursue work-based learning and apprenticeship experiences.
“It’s important that all students can pursue educational opportunities that prepare them for what comes after graduation,” Thompson said. “We’re very excited to launch this program helping young Hoosiers achieve success, no matter their career goals.”
To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, clickhere. For more information, visitin.gov/tos/csa, email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.