Marshall County lawmakers: Students can nowapply for $5K work-based learning scholarships

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State Representatives Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) and Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) encourage high school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials to apply for a Career Scholarship Account.

Jordan 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.

"This scholarship initiative is an innovative way to provide more educational and hands-on experiences to students outside of the classroom, " Jordan said. "Students can check out various career paths that interest them and begin skilling up before graduation."

Teshka 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.

"Hands-on learning experiences can prepare students for life after school and give them a head start in their career field," Teshka said. "I encourage interested Hoosiers to apply for this scholarship, so they can set themselves up for success."

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.

Approved 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.

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.

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.