Local lawmakers are encouraging 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.
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, State Rep. Michelle Davis, R-Whiteland, and co-author of the new law creating the accounts, said in a news release.
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, said State Rep. Robb Greene, R-Shelbyville.
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;
- Post-secondary education and training;
- Transportation and equipment;
- Certification and credentialing examinations;
- Any other expenses approved by state treasurer.
Approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more, said State Rep. Craig Haggard, R-Mooresville. 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, according to the news release.
“There are so many good jobs in high-demand industries that don’t require a college degree,” said State Rep. Peggy Mayfield, R-Martinsville. “Employers need workers who can learn on the job and be ready to go full-time upon graduation. I believe this scholarship will open up opportunities for more students to get hands-on experiences and prepare them for whatever path they choose.”
To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email [email protected] or call 317-232-0723.
