COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio has been awarded a federal Career Pathways Exploration Grant to expand career exploration opportunities for students and strengthen workforce readiness programs.
Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin announced the grant. Ohio is one of five states receiving the award and one of two receiving the maximum funding amount of $3 million per year for three years, totaling $9 million.
The funding will support implementation of Ohio’s Career Connections Framework, which is designed to provide students with career planning opportunities from elementary school through high school. The framework is organized into four phases: Awareness, Exploration, Preparation and Participation.
“This grant will help more Ohio students discover the many opportunities that are available to them right here in Ohio,” said Governor DeWine. “We want our students to understand their strengths, explore different career options, and find a pathway that will help them reach their full potential. I want to thank Secretary McMahon and Acting Secretary Sonderling for supporting Ohio’s efforts to prepare students for successful careers and bright futures.”
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce plans to select 10 schools or districts through a competitive subgrant process this fall to serve as early adopters. The grant will also support improved coordination between districts and expanded data systems to track student interests, career planning, advising and career exploration activities.
