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Education and Skills Support

Support for Working Students

A pinning ceremony at Western Technical College honors graduating nurses, with one student receiving a pin on stage while a speaker presents at a podium nearby.
A table showing income eligibility guidelines for Couleecap’s education and skills support program, based on 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. The chart lists maximum income thresholds by family size: $22,590 for a family of 1, $30,660 for 2, $38,730 for 3, $46,800 for 4, $54,870 for 5, $62,940 for 6, $71,010 for 7, and $79,080 for 8.

Investing in Working Students and Their Future Success

Couleecap offers financial assistance for individuals who are working and pursuing a degree or certificate. If you’re balancing work and school, and need help covering the costs of tuition, books, childcare, transportation, or other related expenses, we’re here to support you on your journey to economic independence.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Education and Skills Support, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Maintain employment averaging 20 hours per week
  • Live in Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, or Vernon counties
  • Be enrolled or planning to enroll in a degree or certificate program
  • Have a household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level

Start The Application Process

Two smiling nurses take a selfie, with one holding up a peace sign.
A smiling graduate in a black cap and gown holds her decorated graduation cap, which reads, "She needed a hero, so she became one. BSW 2020." The cap is adorned with floral designs, and she stands outdoors in front of a fence and tree with houses in the background.

Medical Skills: Focused Support for Future Nurses

Are you pursuing a career in nursing? Medical Skills is designed specifically for individuals who need help completing a nursing-related degree.

Medical Skills can help cover the cost of tuition, books, class fees, uniforms, equipment, transportation, and childcare. You can receive up to $25,000 over three years in direct and indirect support.

How to Qualify

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Live in Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, or Vernon counties
  • Meet income eligibility guidelines (PDF)
  • Be enrolled in or working toward a nursing-related degree
  • Be employed in the field with your degree by June 2026

Qualifying Medical Professions

  • Associate Degree Nurse (RN)
  • Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
  • Medical Assistant (MA)

Client Support

  • Direct: Tuition, books, and class fees

  • Indirect: Childcare, transportation, uniforms, and supplies

  • Maximum assistance: $25,000 over 3 years

Looking for assistance in this or any Couleecap program?

Questions?

Contact Jody Jack-Tranberg, Outreach Specialist by filling out the contact form, calling her at 608.447.0507, or emailing her at jody.jack-tranberg@couleecap.org.

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201 Melby Street, Westby, WI 54667
Ph: 608.782.4877
Fax: 608.634.3134
Toll Free: 866.904.4508

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Couleecap, Inc. complies with applicable laws and regulations for meeting Equal Opportunity Requirements under Equal Pay Act of 1963, Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Acts of 1967 and 1975, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, and Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. This website is partially supported by Grant Number 2502WICOSR from the Office of Community Services, Community Services Block Grant within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Community Services, Community Services Block Grant. You have the right to file a complaint if you are not satisfied with services provided by the agency, or if you have been discriminated against in employment or service delivery. Click here for the forms.