Nearly $44.7M Awarded to Expand Career and Technical Education Access Across Michigan
Funding from Michigan Department of Education Supports Districts in CTE Deserts and Regions with Opportunity Gaps
LANSING – The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is announcing an additional award of nearly $44.7 million in state funding to 80 districts to expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs across the state. The competitive grants aim to increase access to high-quality, state-approved CTE programs for students in communities with limited options or documented opportunity gaps. Funding for the program was appropriated through Section 61v of the State School Aid Act.
“As I’ve visited schools throughout the state, I have heard from educators, students and community members about the importance of having high-quality, relevant CTE programs in their local schools,” said State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko. “These funds will make a difference in districts across Michigan by providing the resources needed to create learning spaces for our students aligned with high-wage, high-skill and in-demand careers.”
The latest funding awarded—which is going to traditional school districts, charter schools and intermediate school districts—brings the total to $68.5 million when first-round funding from April is included. Funds are being awarded over a three-year period. Several districts received funding in both rounds and all grants awarded reflect district’s readiness to expand CTE programs that meet regional and statewide workforce needs.
“Career and technical education opens doors for students by connecting classroom learning to real-world opportunities,” said Grand Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby. “This state funding allows us to continue expanding innovative programs that prepare our scholars for in-demand careers while meeting local workforce needs.”
Grand Rapids Public Schools was awarded $487,810 and is one of 80 districts included in the second round of schools receiving first-year funds. The district will use the funds to support programs in agricultural operations and related sciences, woodworking and business administration management and operations. The district offers students five distinct career-focused academies, college and career preparation programs, dual college enrollment, advanced placement courses and hands-on experience in industry.
In the Straits of Mackinac, Mackinac Island Public Schools received $133,100 to support a new construction trades program.
“Thanks to the 61V grant, our students will get direct, real-world application and trades training without having to navigate the logistical hurdles of leaving the island, said Kelly Lipovsky, superintendent and principal of Mackinac Island Public Schools. “This grant fills a critical gap in our school’s programming, and we were thrilled to bring this opportunity to our students.”
Lipovsky noted that island life presents unique instructional challenges, particularly during winter months when mainland vocational facilities are inaccessible.
“This is also a win for Mackinac Island as a whole. Anyone who lives or works here knows that maintaining our community requires specialized, intricate craftsmanship. The demand for skilled construction trades is constantly growing, whether it’s preserving historic structures or handling local repairs under our unique island conditions.”
In total, the grant awards will fund 229 new CTE programs across 117 school districts statewide, including 57 middle schools. A complete list of awardees for the second round, along with additional information, can be found on the 61v Grant webpage.
Career and Technical Education programs offer traditional classes that many remember and still play an important role in preparing students for the current job market. However, modern CTE programs now include areas such as advanced manufacturing, mechatronics, construction trades, hospitality, health sciences, engineering, cosmetology, digital technology, agriculture, culinary arts and other high-value sectors.
“It’s exciting to see the variety of programs and the diversity of schools across our state that will benefit,” said State Board of Education President Dr. Pamela Pugh. “School leaders will now be able to create instructional spaces that open new learning opportunities for students who may never have had these types of experiences.”
All the CTE Expansion grants awarded support Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan, particularly goals related to expanding secondary learning opportunities for all students, increasing the percentage of all students who graduate from high school and increasing the percentage of adults with a post-secondary credential. The target population for these grants includes students who currently lack access to state approved CTE programs or who need expanded pathways aligned with Michigan’s economic priorities.
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