State Rep. Chuck Goodrich’s (R-Noblesville) bill to increase high school relevancy by expanding work-based learning opportunities is now law.
Goodrich said House Enrolled Act 1002 creates Career Scholarship Accounts (CSA) for Hoosier students to pay for career training, apprenticeships, certifications and internships. The new law will also allow quality, work-based learning to count toward high school graduation requirements.
Goodrich
“We know there are employers across the state who are struggling to find qualified candidates for job openings,” said Goodrich, a member of the House Education Committee. “This is a critical step toward connecting our students with the skills they need for in-demand careers right out of high school.”
Goodrich said CSAs can be used by sophomores, juniors, and seniors to enroll in earn-and-learn opportunities, as well as to pay for items like transportation and uniforms to remove barriers to accessing these experiences. The Indiana Department of Education and the Commission for Higher Education will approve available courses and tracks, and accounts will be awarded $5,000 under the state’s next two-year budget.
According to Goodrich, this legislation incentivizes schools and career centers to partner and bring more experiences to high school students. The State Board of Education will re-examine high school diploma requirements to provide more flexibility in a student’s schedule so they can pursue work-based learning and apprenticeship experiences.
High schools around the state will also host annual career fairs to provide more opportunities for students and employers to connect. Goodrich said that a Teacher Higher Education and Industry Collaboration Grant Program and Fund will be setup to will help teachers engage with colleges and employers to learn about industry needs and employment trends.
Click here to follow legislation signed into law by the governor.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29, which includes a portion of Hamilton County.