Administration-Perkins Grant Career and Technical EducationAcademic Excellence :

Carl D. Perkins is a federal grant that provides funds for approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. In Minnesota, funds are distributed on the basis of state-approved career and technical education programs and appropriate teacher licensure. Programs are administered under Minnesota Rules Chapter 3505 and the federal Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act.

Funds are granted to districts and consortia of districts on a formula basis and can be used in CTE programs for professional development, to promote student attainment of academic and technical skills, upgrading of equipment, school- and work-based experiences, and career counseling and guidance. Program descriptions for CTE program areas are available below. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) has developed self-assessment tools and program approval processes to provide continuous improvement in CTE programs. MDE also collects annual program data to provide support to districts for program improvement and growth.

Perkins IV. On August 12, 2006, President Bush signed the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006. The Act is authorized through 2012. The new Act requires more accountability and a stronger focus on secondary and postsecondary linkages, academic and technical integration, and links with business and industry.

The Minnesota Department of Education in partnership with the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) has created a unified state plan for implementation of Perkins IV Grant. MnSCU is hosting the Perkins IV Web site where users can find the guide to local plan transition year development, a joint local application and an operational handbook. Visit the MnSCU Perkins IV Web site—click on “Local Application Forms & Materials” for more information. 

Contact:  Marlys Bucher at 651-582-8315