State Rep. Sharon Ray | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Sharon Ray | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representative Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) recently addressed the House Workforce and Higher Education Committee to discuss House Bill 25, which proposes the establishment of the Foster-to-College Scholarship Program. Ray is co-sponsoring this legislation with State Representative Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus).
The proposed bill aims to support foster youth in their pursuit of higher education by making scholarships available to those who have been in foster care from age 13 onwards. These scholarships would be applicable for a variety of educational paths, including trade schools, community colleges, and four-year universities.
“House Bill 25 is a vital step toward helping foster youth overcome financial barriers and empowering them to achieve their educational dreams,” stated Ray during her testimony. “By providing both financial assistance and the dedicated support needed to navigate higher education, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these young people and give them the tools to succeed.”
The bill is currently under review by the House Workforce and Higher Education Committee.