Smith applauds unanimous passage of 21st Century Scholars expansion

Rep. Vernon G. Smith (D-Gary) is proud to announce that House Bill 1449, which he is a co-author on, passed unanimously through the Education Committee where he is the Ranking Democrat. HB 1449 expands the 21st Century Scholars Program to automatically enroll eligible young Hoosiers. 

“As one of the co-authors of the original 21st Century Scholars Program, I am beyond excited to see this life changing program expand 33-years later,” Smith said. “I have seen first-hand, in my classrooms at Indiana University Northwest, students who were given the opportunity to attend college solely because of our program. College is an amazing chance for students to learn and grow by being exposed to people from all walks of life, and the 21st Century Scholars Program truly enhances learning outcomes for everyone. While my students come to my classes to learn, it is their lived experiences and contributions that truly teach others and myself.

“Young Hoosiers should not be denied this opportunity simply because they did not know they were eligible or because they missed the filing deadline. In my time as a principal, I personally worked with parents to help them register their children for this program and saw how challenging it would be for them. So, I am glad that Indiana is finally implementing the recommendation I had made 33-years ago for automatic enrollment. 

“Yesterday, we affirmed that higher education is a priority for the State of Indiana, and that those who need a hand up can receive it. 21st Century Scholars is helping the next generation of Hoosiers who will leave a mark on our state, and I could not be more appreciative of everyone who is working to make this program and its expansion possible.”