STATEHOUSE (Sept. 14, 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. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) 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.
"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."
State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) 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.
"Accessing these types of opportunities can be challenging for some Hoosier families when it comes down to the cost," Morrison said. "Financial barriers should not keep these students from learning the skills that can set them up for success after graduation."
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
According to State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville), approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.
"Not every student has the time, money or interest in attending a traditional college, and we want them to know that there are other pathways for them," Borders said. "These scholarships can help high schoolers explore their career interests early on and earn credentials that will make entering the workforce easier."
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.
-30-
State Rep. Bruce Borders (R-Jasonville) represents House District 45,
which includes all of Greene and Sullivan counties, and portions of Daviess, Knox and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
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. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) represents House District 42,
which includes all of Parke and Vermillion counties, and portions of Clay, Fountain and Vigo counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
