Students Helping Young Students Act of 2025
The Students Helping Young Students Act of 2025 would expand federal work-study under the Higher Education Act to support off-campus community service tied to after-school activities. Specifically, it adds after-school activities to the list of eligible community-service activities and creates a new work-study program that compensates students for work in after-school programs at eligible schools or partner organizations. The bill directs the federal government to establish a registration process for eligible schools, set participation standards, and prioritize programs in low-income communities. It also allows the federal share of student compensation to exceed the current 75% limit in certain circumstances. In short, the bill aims to channel federal work-study funds to support student involvement in after-school and community-based activities that serve elementary and secondary schools and their surrounding communities.
Key Points
- 1Expands the definition of eligible community services to include after-school activities as defined in the bill, enabling work-study funds to support off-campus programs.
- 2Creates an after-school work-study program (Section 443(f)) where funds can be used to compensate students for time spent in after-school activities, including training and travel.
- 3Establishes a registration and implementation process within 180 days of enactment, with the Secretary issuing standards for participation and for the registration process.
- 4Requires priority consideration for eligible schools serving low-income communities and ensures students receive appropriate training for the work performed.
- 5Allows the federal share of compensation for students under this program to exceed 75 percent, broadening the cost-sharing possibilities for participating institutions.