STATEHOUSE (Sept. 25, 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. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland), co-author of the new law creating the accounts, 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.
"Providing more hands-on learning opportunities beyond classroom instruction can help students be better prepared to enter college or the workforce," said Davis, a member of the House Education Committee. "These new scholarships pave the way for high schoolers to get involved in the industries they are interested in and build skills."
State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) 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.
"Our state will always be in need of plumbers, electricians and other skilled laborers just like we need IT and accounting professionals," Greene said. "Through CSAs, we can ensure that students have access to quality, work-based learning and courses so they can fill these and other vital positions."
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
According to State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville), approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.
"Financial barriers shouldn't stand in the way of a student pursuing a work-based learning experience that could lead to a promising career right out of high school," Haggard said. "These scholarships can benefit young Hoosiers seeking to learn skills that can give them a head start in the workforce."
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.
"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, 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. Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) represents House District 58,
which includes a portion of Johnson County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville) represents House District 57,
which includes portions of Hendricks, Johnson and Morgan counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
