$600,000 grant for career exploration

U.S. Department of Education announces $600,000 challenge to advance technology education in rural high schools and prepare students for careers

To be successful in careers of today and the future, students must be equipped with advanced technology skills. Yet many barriers exist, especially in rural communities.  One-third of American schools are located in rural areas. But unlike their urban counterparts, community resources such as companies to host interns, technology resources, qualified staff, and connectivity can be lacking.

To address this need, the United States Department of Education is sponsoring The Rural Tech Project – a $600,000 challenge to advance rural technology education and prepare students for the careers of today and tomorrow. “The Rural Tech Project will empower educators with resources to create technology education programs that are customized for their students and local needs. This open innovation challenge will use flexible delivery methods, including distance and blended learning, as well as competency-based education — a learning approach enabling students to master skills at their own pace — to provide high school students with advanced technology skills. By advancing technology skills development, rural communities can help their students prepare for rewarding career opportunities.”

The U.S. Department of Education invites high schools and local educational agencies to propose technology education programs that use competency-based distance learning. Any eligible school or local educational agency who serves rural students in grades 9-12 can submit. The deadline for submissions is October 8, 5:59 p.m. ET. A virtual information session will be held July 21.

>> CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS & TO APPLY

A key component of success in this Challenge will be to truly push the limits and propose a solution that goes beyond anything that yet exists. Be sure to have an expert on your proposal and project team to create systems, models, and things that don’t yet exist to truly innovate STEM education. >> Click here to see how Career In STEM can help