Alaska Performance Scholarship Passes House

Press Release

Governor Sean Parnell commended the State House for passing House Bill 104, relating to the Alaska Performance Scholarship (APS). HB 104 creates a funding mechanism for APS. The bill also renames APS and authorizes certain tax credits applicable to contributions to the scholarship. APS was created last year by Governor Parnell and the Legislature.

"I appreciate today's unanimous House vote advancing the Alaska Performance Scholarship, but critical work remains," Governor Parnell said. "It's now time for the House and Senate to both pass a minimum of $8 million for the first year's funding for students who have earned scholarships, and to provide funding for HB 104. We have set high expectations for our students and they have stepped up. We must fulfill our promise to the class of 2011 and those who have committed to taking a more rigorous curriculum. Along with thousands of students, parents and teachers, I encourage the House and Senate to pass this bill before the legislative session ends."

This year more than 8,000 graduating high school seniors have had the opportunity to earn scholarships from the State of Alaska to pursue their degree or vocational training in Alaska. Over the next three years, 30,000 Alaskan students will be eligible to earn up to $4,755 each per year.

Source