Allen County lawmakers: Students can now apply for $5K work-based learning scholarships

Posted by: Kylie Glatfelter  | Wednesday, May 22, 2024

STATEHOUSE (May 22, 2024) – Allen County lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.

“CSAs give students exposure to sought-after careers and the opportunity to skill up," said State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne). "An apprenticeship or similar experience can be a great starting point for young Hoosiers to achieve future success.”

State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) said Hoosier students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades at a state accredited public or private school can receive up to a $5,000 state-funded scholarship to pursue apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning and credentials attainment. About 2,000 spots are available for the 2024-2025 school year and students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until the Oct. 1 deadline.

"Earn and learn opportunities teach students invaluable skills for life and the workforce," Heine said. "These scholarships can be a launchpad for students to start a career and I encourage eligible students to apply."

State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) said 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 will participate in joint career and technical education, modern youth apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships or an Indiana College Core program by an approved CSA participating entity.

"Whether students pursue college or enter the workforce, the training opportunities offered by the CSA program pave the way for a promising future for young Hoosiers," Judy said. "Earning certifications and credentials during high school will put these students ahead of others when choosing their career path."

Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:

  • Class expenses for student's apprenticeships/internship program;
  • Postsecondary education and/or training;
  • Equipment for student's apprenticeship/internship program;
  • Certification and credentialing examinations;
  • Career coaching and navigation services;
  • Driver's license; and
  • Transportation.

 

According to State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne), courses and classes include a variety of topics like accounting, carpentry, cybersecurity, information technology, software development and veterinary science. A full list of approved courses, educational experiences and participating entities can be found at in.gov/tos/csa.

"With applications now open for Career Scholarship Accounts, high school students who want to explore a career should consider applying,” Morris said. "Having hands-on work experience at a young age can help set them up for success after graduation."

To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.

Local employers, trade associations, labor unions and others interested in connecting with the next generation of talent can apply to host a CSA program or be a provider. Visit in.gov/tos/csa and click on "provider resources" for more information.

-30-

State Rep. Martin Carbaugh (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 81, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
 
State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

State Rep. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
 
State Rep. Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 84, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.