Some local schools are getting funding to help connect students with high-wage, high-demand careers. The Indiana Department of Education has announced more than $57 million in Explore, Engage and Experience (3E) grants. The goal is to increase the number of students taking part in work-based learning and earning credentials while in high school by encouraging schools, nonprofits and other organizations to collaborate on plans for career pathways.
Locally, the School City of Hobart got almost $610,000 to partner with Ivy Tech Community College's Valparaiso campus, St. Mary Medical Center and the Center of Workforce Innovations. The Hanover Community School Corporation got almost $120,000 to work with Grand Tots, Inc. Griffith Public Schools got almost $50,000 for its partnership with Grimmer Construction, Ivy Tech Community College and Purdue Northwest. And the parent company of 21st Century Charter School and Gary Middle College was awarded more than $250,000 to partner with Cooke Medical.
Funding for the 3E grants came from the federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief program. The Indiana Department of Education says $25 million was originally allocated but it was expanded to more than $57 million, "due to an overwhelming response in strong applications from across the state."