Delaware Pathways grants support high school career programs
Gov. John Carney announced more than $438,000 in federal grants will expand high school career pathway programs at a Nov. 14 press conference at Sussex Technical High School.
“To compete in the Mid-Atlantic, we have to make sure we graduate every student in Delaware either career- or college-ready,” Carney said. “Our success as a state depends on it.”
Carney joined Sussex Tech students and administrators in the school’s automotive technology shop to announce the 42 awards, which will benefit 20 districts or charter schools across the state.
Carney said student mechanics are in demand in both the public and private sectors.
“There is a tremendous demand for your skills, particularly for diesel mechanics,” Carney said.
Sussex Tech is using its grant to support its automotive technology career pathway. Students can earn a Delaware Department of Labor pre-apprenticeship certificate, National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence entry-level certification, ASE G1 certification and college credits through Del Tech.
Lester Guyer, assistant service director at IG Burton, said the grants help grow Delaware’s auto industry.
“IG Burton is excited to partner with the state and school districts to ensure youth can apply their skills in the workplace,” he said. “Congratulations to Sussex Tech for helping youth build automotive technology skills needed to be employed.”
Grant funds are used to implement career and technical education programs. Students take hundreds of hours of specialized instruction and hands-on training in their pathways, allowing them to graduate with work experience, college credit and industry credentials.
The Delaware Pathways program serves more than 12,000 students enrolled in 20 career pathways programs across 16 comprehensive school districts, three technical school districts, and 10 charter districts, in addition to students at Cleveland White and the Ferris School.
“Students need cutting-edge tools, software and technology to learn and practice professional skills that they can immediately apply in the workforce,” said Sussex Technical School District Superintendent Stephen Guthrie.
Cape High received grants for its animal science and management and natural resource management pathways, and Sussex Academy received funds for its digital communication technology pathway.
