Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education awarded Workforce Education Grants (WEGs) to four school districts this week. The WEG program was designed to drive meaningful innovation in career and technical education (CTE) across middle and high schools.  The program highlights districts that demonstrate strong collaboration with postsecondary institutions and industry partners to design and deliver programs aligned to current and emerging workforce needs.

“CTE programs create authentic experiences for our students,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Graves.  “Securing grants, like the Workforce Education Grant, strengthens school districts' CTE programs by ensuring students are performing essential hands-on learning using state-of-the-art equipment.”

Effective CTE programs empower students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world experiences needed to thrive in both postsecondary pathways and today’s workforce.

The four school districts receiving awards are:

• Frederick Area School District was awarded $55,142 to purchase equipment for its newly expanded Agriculture program;
• Hill City School District was awarded $18,229 to modernize its Manufacturing program with the purchase of industry-grade equipment;
• Rapid City Area Schools was awarded $223,830 to meet industry standards for the Culinary Arts lab and support expansion of course offerings; and
• Spearfish School District was awarded $43,175 to enhance its Manufacturing program with the purchase of industry-grade equipment.

To learn more about the Workforce Education Grant, visit does.sd.gov/cte/WEG.aspx.

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