STATEHOUSE (Sept. 26, 2023) – 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. David Abbott (R-Rome City) 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.
"To be successful in today's workforce, we know that employees need additional education and training beyond a high school diploma," Abbott said. "This new scholarship program can alleviate some of the financial strain so that more students are able to connect with area employers and be better prepared for what comes after graduation."
State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) 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.
"These scholarships can really open up students' eyes to new career paths and opportunities," King said. "Our hope is that by increasing access learn and earn opportunities, and other training courses, students will be better prepared for life after graduation."
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
According to State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart), approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.
"Going to college isn't for everyone, so creating different learning avenues for students while in high school is important," Miller said. "Students will be able to explore careers and additional subjects that interest them, so that they are more prepared to succeed after school."
"The opportunity to earn, learn and work outside of the classroom is greatly beneficial to Hoosier students," said State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola). "These scholarships can help all students and reduce financial barriers to skilling up."
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.
To learn more about Career Scholarship Accounts and enroll before the Oct. 1 deadline, click here. For more information, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.
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State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City) represents House District 18,
which includes portions of Elkhart, Kosciusko, Noble and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Tim Wesco (R-Osceola) represents House District 21,
which includes portions of Elkhart and St. Joseph counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
