Cass County lawmakers: New career scholarships can open doors for Hoosier high school students
Last Updated on September 22, 2023 by State Representatives Ethan Manning and Heath VanNatter
Deadline to apply for $5,000 scholarship is Oct. 1, 2023
STATEHOUSE – State Reps. Ethan Manning (R-Logansport) and Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo) 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.
Manning 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.
“Opening up more opportunities for our high schoolers to explore career fields and gain hands-on experience can help make their education more relevant,” Manning said. “These scholarships could be a great starting place for a future career, and I encourage interested students to apply.”
VanNatter 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.
“There are many high-demand career paths available that don’t require a college degree,” VanNatter said. “CSAs can let students discover career options and earn certifications that can help them after graduation.”
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 Accountsand 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.
SOURCE: News release from State Representatives Ethan Manning and Heath VanNatter