PERHAM, Minn. – Perham High School has clinched a groundbreaking $100,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, marking a significant milestone in the realm of youth education. Out of a competitive pool, Perham stands among the elite 17 schools statewide chosen to receive this prestigious grant.The grant’s primary objective is to fortify programs aimed at furnishing students aged 16 and above with invaluable career exposure and lucrative paid work experiences. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of equipping students with practical skills pertinent to their professional aspirations.Expressing profound enthusiasm, Perham’s Work Based Learning Director, Darren Glynn, highlighted the transformative potential this grant holds for both the school and its students. Glynn underscored the intended utilization of funds, earmarked for staff training, curriculum development, introduction of new industry certifications, and provision of immersive work-based learning experiences.
In a statement, Nicole Blissenbach, Commissioner of DLI, emphasized the significance of these grants in guiding Minnesota’s high school students toward high-demand occupations, fostering safe and enriching work experiences within their communities. The $1.5 million in funding, distributed among the selected schools, will fuel programs spanning from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026. These partnerships will offer a spectrum of immersive experiences across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, agriculture, automotive, healthcare, and information technology. Glynn elucidated that the grant would unlock doors to myriad opportunities not currently accessible to students, envisaging expansions in certifications ranging from welding, CNA, and CDL to cutting-edge domains like power sports, marine certifications, mechatronics, drone technology, and culinary arts.
The grants are versatile, catering to various needs such as program creation, student and employer recruitment, training provisions, transportation, and funding for industry-specific certifications. Excitement is palpable as Perham High School gears up to host the CTE Career Expo on May 1, providing a platform for students to engage with a diverse array of businesses and colleges. This event promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping the career trajectories of Perham’s young talents. For further details on the CTE Career Expo or to register as a participating business, interested parties are encouraged to contact Perham High School.