Nearly half of Sacramento high school students eligible for CalKids scholarships
Graduating seniors in Sacramento County can get scholarships of up to $1,500 through a state program.
About 48% of public high school students in the county are eligible for the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program, officials said.
The money can go for college or career training.
Who can claim a CalKids scholarship?
California public school students who may be eligible to claim CalKids scholarships include students enrolled in first through 12th grade during the 2021-2022 academic year, state officials said.
Students who enrolled in first grade during the 2022-2023 academic year — and every school year after that — can claim their CalKids scholarship accounts once they reach second grade.
“To be considered for eligibility, a student must have been enrolled on Fall Census Day and must also be identified as an English learner or low-income,” state officials say.
What can I use scholarship money for?
“Funds can be used at accredited colleges, universities, community colleges, trade schools and vocational programs for qualified educational expenses,” CalKids officials said in a Tuesday,
These include tuition, fees, books and supplies, as well as computer equipment and room and board.
The CalKids program is administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board under the California State Treasurer’s Office.
“CalKIDS represents California’s investment in the promise and potential of our students,” California State Treasurer Fiona Ma said in the release. “These scholarships send a powerful message to families across our state: we believe in our young people, we are investing in their future, and we want every student to know that college or career training is within reach.”
How can I tell if my student is eligible?
Students, their parents or guardians must claim their CalKids scholarship accounts in order to use the funds.
Go to CalKids.org and enter your child’s statewide student identifier, or SSI, to check eligibility.