East Jackson, Northwest schools awarded funds for new career training programs

State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz today highlighted new state funding awarded to two local school districts through the Michigan Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expansion Grant program. The grants will help schools create and expand hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for high-demand careers.

East Jackson Community Schools received $121,100 to support a new Middle School Advanced Manufacturing program and Northwest Community Schools was awarded $399,561 for a new Mechatronics program.

“Career and technical education gives students valuable skills they can use in college, the workforce, or wherever their future takes them,” Schmaltz said. “These investments will help more students explore rewarding career paths while strengthening the talent pipeline for employers right here in our community.”

The grants are part of Michigan’s CTE Expansion Grant program, which provides funding to school districts to increase access to high-quality, state-approved career and technical education programs. State officials recently announced nearly $44.7 million in second-round awards to districts across Michigan to help create new learning opportunities aligned with workforce needs.

“Students learn best when they can connect what they’re studying in the classroom to real-world opportunities,” Schmaltz said. “I’m excited to see East Jackson and Northwest bringing these new programs to students and helping them build skills that can lead to successful careers and stronger communities.”