The "Building Capacity for Career Pathways in Comprehensive Schools" grant, now in its fourth and final year, aims to expand career and technical education (CTE) opportunities for New Jersey students in high schools. The initiative focuses on equipping students with the skills needed for high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand careers through structured career pathways. This continuation grant builds on the success of the pilot program launched in previous years, with an emphasis on increasing student participation in high-quality CTE programs, improving career preparation, and boosting the number of students earning industry-recognized and postsecondary credentials while still in high school.
The program's objectives include not only enhancing individual student outcomes but also providing technical assistance to support the development of model career pathways across the state. This effort will foster a community of educators, industry representatives, and postsecondary partners, all working to establish best practices in career and technical education.
Only three school districts—Cherry Hill Township, Collingswood Borough, and Pitman—are eligible to apply, as they were selected through a competitive process during the first year of the program. Each district may apply for up to $168,750 for the final grant period, which runs from February 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026. The total available funding for this year is $506,250, contingent on the availability of state vocational aid.
Applications are due by December 5, 2024. The grant is designated as a continuation award, supporting ongoing efforts to strengthen career pathways in the participating districts.
