WYRZ.org 98.9 WYRZ – The Voice of Hendricks County
STATEHOUSE (May 29, 2024) – Hendricks County lawmakers encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.
State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) 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.
“As a former high school teacher, I know that not every student wants to pursue a four-year degree, but they need additional skills beyond the classroom to be successful after graduation,” Thompson said. “These scholarships help remove barriers so that more students can explore their career interests and better prepare for whatever path they choose.”
State Rep. Greg Steuerwald (R-Avon) 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.
“Having hands-on, practical experience listed on a resume, especially coming out of high school, could be a gamechanger for students,” Steuerwald said. “Whether high schoolers want to pursue further training or enter the workforce, I hope to see more students take advantage of this opportunity.”
Approved students will receive $5,000 over four disbursements and can use the money toward certain qualified expenses:
- Class expenses for student’s apprenticeships/internship program;
- Postsecondary education and/or training;
- Equipment for student’s apprenticeship/internship program;
- Certification and credentialing examinations;
- Career coaching and navigation services;
- Driver’s license; and
- Transportation.
According to State Rep. Craig Haggard (R-Mooresville), 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.
“Regardless of a student’s plan after high school, they can benefit from participating in applied learning opportunities,” Haggard said. “I encourage those who are eligible for these scholarships to apply and explore potential careers.”
“All students should be able to pursue educational opportunities that prepare them for what comes after graduation and beyond,” said State Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville). “This program will help young Hoosiers achieve success, accomplish goals and gain valuable skills.”
To learn more about Career Scholarship Accountsand 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.
