HARRISBURG – Sen. Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35), Rep. Mike Armanini (R-75), Rep. Frank Burns (D-72), Rep. Dallas Kephart (R-73), and Rep. Jim Rigby (R-71) announced grant awards through the PAsmart Advancing Grants for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that expand access to computer science and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and professional development.
In Clearfield County, the DuBois Area School District was awarded $450,000 to expand access to CTE computer science and STEM experiences for students and adults. DuBois Area School District CTE program prepares students to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
“By expanding access to computer science and STEM education, we’re equipping students and adults with the skills they need to succeed in today’s workforce and strengthening Clearfield County’s future,” said Langerholc.
“Securing this funding will enable the DuBois School District to respond to the needs and demands that our area is experiencing as we keep industries growing. Our area is much more than just the PA Wilds, as we are the Northwestern Pennsylvania industrial hub, and we must all work to assure we can keep this area economically strong. The best outcome is now having the education that will help our bright young adults,” said Armanini.
In Cambria County, Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center was awarded $75,000 to support the collaboration between schools and a local or regional CTE partner to expand learning opportunities for students. The Admiral Peary Area Vocational-Technical School was awarded $450,000 to expand access to CTE computer science and STEM experience for students and adults.
“This is a strategic step toward preparing our students and adult learners for the jobs of tomorrow and supporting workforce needs in our region,” said Langerholc.
“These grants will expand learning opportunities for students interested in high-demand careers so students can get the hands-on training necessary for them to enter the workforce in these careers,” Burns said. “This also gives employers access to a qualified workforce from day one.”
“Funding CTE programs is a direct investment into our students seeking technical jobs. We are enabling our high school students to get a hands-on education, which will position them well for employment in a number of fields our Commonwealth needs,” said Kephart.
“These programs are preparing students for 21st century careers. They provide hands-on lessons involving the latest technology, computer hardware and software systems, and math curriculum, so it is important the schools are supported in these worthwhile endeavors,” said Rigby.
CONTACT: Gwenn Dando (Langerholc)
Amy Hartman (Burns)
Jennifer Fitch (Reps. Armanini, Kephart, and Rigby)