Summary

The Connecticut Department of Education received a $12.25 million Career and Technical Education – Basic Grants to States (CFDA 84.048) formula grant from the Employment and Training Administration, effective July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2027. This award supports the development of academic knowledge and technical and employability skills for secondary and postsecondary students enrolled in career and technical education (CTE) programs under the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V). The state administers these funds through a network of sub-awards to eligible recipients, including local educational agencies, area CTE schools, and postsecondary institutions, enabling direct implementation of CTE curricula, teacher training, equipment procurement, and student support services that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand occupations.

The award encompasses both secondary and postsecondary grant components distributed to Connecticut school districts and educational institutions. As of March 2026, the state had issued Perkins Secondary Grants to over 40 public school districts and educational service organizations throughout Connecticut—including Hartford Public Schools, Waterbury School District, East Hartford Public Schools, and numerous regional school districts—to support local CTE programming. Additionally, Goodwin University Inc. and Connecticut State Community College received Perkins Postsecondary Grants to enhance career and technical education at the higher education level. These sub-awards enable participating institutions to deliver comprehensive CTE pathways, support disadvantaged student populations, and ensure alignment with current workforce demands across Connecticut's regional economies.