Whitley County lawmakers: New career scholarships can open doors for Hoosier high school students

Posted by: Kylie Glatfelter  | Friday, September 15, 2023

STATEHOUSE (Sept. 15, 2023) – State Reps. David Abbott (R-Rome City) and Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) encourage local 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.

Abbott 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."

Judy 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.

"Employers across the state are in need of qualified workers, and Career Scholarship Accounts can help boost our students and better prepare them to fill those positions," Judy said. "Giving our students more outside learning opportunities not only benefit them but also potential employers looking to fill vital roles."

Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:

  • Expenses to enroll in and attend sequences, courses, apprenticeships, or programs of study;
  • Career coaching and navigation services;
  • Postsecondary education and training;
  • Transportation and equipment;
  • Certification and credentialing examinations; and 
  • Any other expenses approved by the Treasurer of the State.

Approved courses and classes, which are listed on the online application, can be in accounting, cybersecurity, information technology, software development, veterinary science and more.

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. Chris Judy (R-Fort Wayne) represents House District 83,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.