Virginia awards $600K grants for career and technical education equipment upgrades

Lisa Coons Superintendent of Public Instruction | Virginia Department Of Education

Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Emily Anne Gullickson announced the allocation of $600,000 in competitive grants to 16 school divisions. The funding aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) programs with modern equipment. Each division will receive $37,500 for equipment upgrades that align with high-demand industry sectors as identified by the Virginia Office of Education Economics.

Emily Anne Gullickson emphasized the significance of this investment, stating, “With this $600,000 investment in modern CTE equipment, we’re strengthening Virginia’s future workforce by giving students access to the same tools and technologies used by today’s top industries.” She added that these enhancements would prepare students for high-wage careers within the Commonwealth.

Nicole Overley, Virginia Works Commissioner, highlighted the state's commitment to equipping students with necessary skills: "This announcement from the Virginia Department of Education today exemplifies our Commonwealth’s commitment to career and technical education that equips our students with the skills and exposure they need to be life-ready and career-ready."

The CTE equipment grant program began in 2016 following its establishment by the General Assembly. Since then, it has distributed $5.4 million to school divisions. This initiative is part of Governor Youngkin's increased direct aid to public education exceeding $7 billion since the pandemic.

Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera remarked on Governor Youngkin's focus on education: “Under Governor Youngkin’s leadership, education at every level—from K-12 through our two and four-year colleges — is now laser-focused on preparing every Virginian for success in life.”

Virginia also promotes CTE through its 3E Readiness indicator within its accountability system. This includes tracking student outcomes related to Enrollment, Employment, and Enlistment. In particular, it assesses CTE completion status and achievements like state-approved industry credentials.