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. Dave Hall (R-Norman) 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.
"Whether a student wants to pursue more training after high school or enter the workforce, these scholarships could provide them opportunities to explore potential careers and get hands-on training," Hall said. "Skilling up earlier on can give students a better head start and increase their ability to land an in-demand job."
State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) 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.
"With technology advancing so fast, it's essential for students to have some kind of training beyond a high school diploma in order to secure good jobs," Heaton said. "These scholarships are a great way to cover the costs of work-based learning experiences that can lead to in-demand careers."
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
According to State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville), approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.
"There are so many good jobs in high-demand industries that don't require a college degree," Mayfield said. "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."
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, visit in.gov/tos/csa, email CSA@tos.in.gov or call 317-232-0723.
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State Rep. Dave Hall (R-Norman) represents House District 62,
which includes all of Brown County, and portions of Monroe and Jackson counties.
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State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes all of Owen County, and portions of Clay, Monroe and Vigo 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.