May 4, 2023

The South Dakota Department of Education recently awarded Workforce Education Grants, totaling $822,250, to five South Dakota public school districts.

“Career and technical education connects students with experiences that prepare them for postsecondary, and ultimately, the workforce. CTE coursework brings relevance to the educational experience, while students gain exposure to potential careers,” said Secretary of Education Joseph Graves. “I applaud these districts for investing in their students’ futures in this manner.”

According to the award announcement, the purpose of the grant program is to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. Grant recipients include:

• Edgemont School District - $84,975
• Parker School District - $225,000
• Sioux Falls School District - $62,275
• Wall School District - $225,000
• Woonsocket School District - $225,000

In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for career and technical education (CTE) programs in secondary schools.