Texas awards over $1.3 million in grants to school districts for career and technical education programs

Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has announced the awarding of over $1.3 million in dual credit grants to seven Texas independent school districts (ISDs). The funding, distributed through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), will provide much-needed support for career and technical education (CTE) programs, helping students acquire the skills necessary to secure high-demand, well-paying jobs upon graduation.
Strengthening the Future Workforce
The grants will enable the selected ISDs to purchase, repair, or replace equipment for their CTE programs, offering students real-world training as they pursue high school coursework. Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Texas is the economic envy of America thanks to our highly skilled, diverse, and educated workforce. These dual credit grants will help ensure seven school districts across Texas have the necessary equipment to further train young students for high-demand, good-paying jobs after they graduate.”
Career and technical education programs give students a head start in industries such as nursing, welding, and carpentry. “By continuing to invest in the future of our workforce, we will equip Texas students with new, advanced skills that can help boost Texas’ growing economy and ensure Texans in every corner of our great state have the opportunity for a better job and a bigger paycheck,” Abbott added.
Grants Focused on Real-World Training
TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel highlighted the value of these grants, saying, “TWC’s dual credit grants provide students with real-world experiences to help them succeed in high-demand industries.” The programs supported by these grants will not only allow students to earn college credit while in high school but also position them to meet the needs of industries seeking skilled workers.
The seven ISDs receiving dual credit grants include:
- Brooks County ISD – $218,418 for an HVAC program
- Deweyville ISD – $220,000 for a carpentry program
- La Pryor ISD – $220,000 for a nursing program
- Panther Creek ISD – $41,452 for a welding program
- Pawnee ISD – $220,000 for a welding program
- Santa Gertrudis ISD – $210,445 for a medical program
- Zapata County ISD – $220,000 for a nursing program
Expanding Opportunities for Students
The TWC utilizes funds from the Skills Development Fund to create and expand dual credit and CTE programs. These initiatives address the growing demand for skilled workers in high-wage industries across the state, offering students a clear path to achieving their career goals.
Employers, students, and schools interested in these training programs and resources can find more information by visiting TWC’s Education Services page.
This investment reflects Texas’ commitment to fostering educational opportunities and ensuring that students across the state are equipped with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in a competitive economy.