In an effort to expand access to career and technical education programs, the Texas Workforce Commission distributed over $54 million to colleges and schools across the state.
The Jobs and Education for Texans program helps schools purchase the equipment needed to train students for high-demand jobs in a variety of fields. According to a news release, 152 grants were awarded to public community, state and technical colleges; school districts; and open-enrollment charter schools in 2022. Some schools received more than one grant.
Ahead of the 2022-23 biennium, lawmakers allocated $15 million in grant funds for colleges and $50 million for school districts and charter schools working in partnership with colleges. According to the program website, the Windham School District, which provides educational opportunities for inmates in state prisons, also receives JET funds.
Schools may use JET funds to create and expand license, certificate and post-secondary degree programs for fields such as nursing, dentistry, welding, automotive repair and more, the release said.
