PIERRE — A total of 17 South Dakota school districts will share slightly more than $3 million in Career and Technical Education (CTE) Innovative EquipmentGrants to implement emerging technology and modern equipment in CTE programs.
Heartland area schools that will receive a share of the funding include the Huron and Miller school districts.
Huron put forth a multi-dimensional plan to support high-need workforce areas in healthcare and automotive mechanics in its community for the grant request.
The Health Science program will increase innovation with an Anatomage system, and the Transportation program will add Consulab Engine Trainers. The Huron School District will receive $250,000 in funding.
Industry and postsecondary partners of the Huron grant are Mitchell Technical College, University of South Dakota, Huron Regional Medical Center, Southeast Technical College, Iverson Auto and Lake Area Technical College.
Miller is advancing the technology and equipment used in its Ag, Food, and Natural Resources program, by adding ‘cobot’ (collaborative robots) robotic welders to prepare students for the growing number of careers incorporating automation.
Donlin Building, Inc. and Vern’s Manufacturing, Inc. are partners for the $113,700 Miller School District grant.
“The equipment schools purchase with these grants will open students’ eyes to amazing career opportunities in their backyards,” said Secretary of Education Tiffany Sanderson.
“They are taking their CTE programs to the cutting-edge, helping students master industry standards, learn from employers in their local communities, and develop skills for high-demand, high-wage fields in South Dakota.”
