Proposed Legislation Would Automatically Enroll Eligible Students Into 21st Century Scholar Program

Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program is an early-college promise program designed to make college more affordable for students.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS – An Indiana lawmaker is setting out to boost college attainment. 

On Wednesday, State Senator Eddie Melton’s Senate Bill 435 was heard in the Senate Education and Career Development Committee.

The legislation would automatically enroll eligible Indiana students into the 21st Century Scholars Program.

Under the program, eligible students who meet requirements receive a two or four-year scholarship that pays up to 100 percent tuition at an eligible Indiana college or university.

“Boosting college attainment and getting more young people on the pathway to college is critical in our state, and I’m glad my bill to make that happen was heard today,” Senator Melton said. “For both the Senate Democratic Caucus and the Black Legislative Caucus, it is a top priority to get legislation like this passed this year. By automatically enrolling students in the 21st Century Scholars Program, more of our kids—especially those in Black and other minority communities—will be able to access college with robust financial support.”

Melton added that the bill aims to help reverse the state’s declining college attainment rate and attract more high-paying jobs to the state.

SB 435 will be open for amendments and a vote in next week’s Senate Education and Career Development Committee.

More from Local News

Events

Oldenburg Academy Receives Generous Grant to Support Launch of Robotics Team

A countywide VEX VRC High School robotics team is composed of students from Ripley County.

Aurora Elementary Teacher Hopes to Win America's Favorite Teacher Competition

In order to win, Lori Friedhoff needs your votes.

Batesville Location Selected for EV Charging Station

INDOT has announced the first electric vehicle infrastructure awards for the Charging the Crossroads program.

Local Sports Report - March 28, 2024

Report missing high school sports scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com.

Local Sports Report - March 28, 2024

Report missing high school sports scorers and stats to news@eaglecountryonline.com.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Reba McEntire - One Promise Too Late

Chris Young and Mitchell Tenpenny At the End of a Bar 5:09
Luke Combs Where The Wild Things Are 5:05
Tyler Farr Guy Walks Into A Bar 5:02
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 5:01