STATEHOUSE (May 22, 2024) – Madison County lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.
"High schoolers should begin preparing for their post-graduation plans, whether that involves pursuing further education or entering the workforce," said State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion), who co-authored the legislation. "This scholarship offers Hoosier students a chance to explore different pathways and ensure that they are better prepared to hit the ground running."
State Rep. Kyle Pierce (R-Anderson), co-author of the law expanding the scholarships, 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.
"Work-based experience can really help prepare students for life after graduation and introduce them to the skills they'll need to reach their career goals," Pierce said. "Whether it's exploring a trade or understanding the importance of time management and communication, highschoolers can benefit is so many ways."
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) 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.
"Career Scholarship Accounts are really a gamechanger for students," Jeter said. "They'll have more access to outside learning opportunities can help them 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:
According to State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown), who co-authored the legislation, 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.
"Financial barriers often prevent students from accessing experiences that can pave the way for a successful career or more training after high school," Rowray said. "These scholarships are a great resource for students looking to gain skills and enter the workforce with confidence."
"Providing young students with a chance to explore career paths and gain hands-on experience is a great start to their transition into the workforce," said State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield). "These scholarships can help build a great foundation to a bright future, and I encourage eligible Hoosiers to apply."
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. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Lori Goss-Reaves (R-Marion) represents House District 31,
which includes portions of Grant and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Hamilton, Hancock, Madison and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Kyle Pierce (R-Anderson) represents House District 36,
which includes a portion of Madison County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown) represents House District 35,
which includes portions of Delaware and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
.jpg){kind=link}
