Career and technical education programs at Buena Vista City Public Schools are supported in part by a federal Perkins grant, which school officials say helps expand student access to hands-on training and industry certifications.
At last month’s School Board meeting, CTE Supervisor Jessie Moala said the division received about $21,000 in Perkins funding this year, which is used to enhance program quality, support student certification and strengthen partnerships with local employers.
The grant helps cover the cost of certification testing in areas such as welding, carpentry, Microsoft Office and workplace readiness, as well as first aid certification for students in athletic training programs.
It has also supported updates to coursework, including expanding the school’s athletic training program to include personal training, allowing students to earn more advanced credentials.
Moala said the funding has helped increase student participation in work-based learning opportunities. About 30 students are currently involved in internships or workplace training programs — roughly triple the number from the previous year.
Students are placed with local employers in a range of fields, giving them hands-on experience while still in high school.
The grant has also been used to purchase equipment and materials for CTE classes, including new laptops and a camera for the school’s video media program, as well as supplies for nutrition and wellness courses.
In addition, Buena Vista partners with Mountain Gateway Community College to provide advanced training opportunities. A small group of students is currently working toward welding certification through the college’s workforce center.
Moala said student interest plays a key role in determining funding levels, noting that Buena Vista receives significantly more Perkins funding than some smaller divisions due to higher enrollment in CTE courses.
“For our students, college is not for everyone,” she said. “It’s important that they realize there are more options.”
The Buena Vista School Board approved next year’s Perkins grant application at its March 26 meeting.
