Funding options for college and career readiness
Funding for college and career readiness can be obtained from a variety of sources, including state, local, and federal government sources, as well as grants from non-profit and private organizations. Each funding source has its own set of rules, requirements, and deadlines.
Funding sources
While we have provided some resources for your convenience, we recommend conducting thorough research to explore all available funding options.
Carl Perkins
Career & Technical Education
The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act serves as a vital resource for school districts seeking to strengthen their career and technical education programs. Through formula funds and competitive grants, districts can secure financial support to elevate the quality and effectiveness of these programs. This funding can be employed to procure state-of-the-art equipment, develop and enhance curriculum, integrate cutting-edge technology, and provide professional development opportunities for educators. By harnessing the resources made available through the Carl D. Perkins Act, school districts can offer students comprehensive and innovative career and technical education experiences that prepare them for success in the workforce and beyond.
ESSER
AP®, Honors, & Electives; Dual Enrollment; Career & Technical Education
The Elementary and Secondary Emergency Relief (ESSER) program has emerged as a critical response to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through substantial funding provided by Congress, ESSER aims to address the immediate and long-term impacts of the crisis on elementary and secondary education. These funds can be used to procure high-quality instructional materials that facilitate engaging and effective learning experiences and to implement educational technology solutions that support remote and hybrid learning models. Additionally, ESSER funds enable schools to provide differentiated instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of students, ensuring that every learner has equal opportunities for academic success. By leveraging ESSER funds strategically, schools can mitigate the disruptions caused by the pandemic and foster resilient and inclusive learning environments for all students.
Title I, Part A
AP®, Honors, & Electives; Dual Enrollment; Career & Technical Education
Title I, Part A is a crucial federal program that plays a significant role in narrowing the achievement gap for students from low-income families. Its primary objective is to ensure that these students have equitable access to quality education and the resources necessary to meet challenging state academic standards. By providing additional funding to schools with high concentrations of students from low-income backgrounds, Title I enables targeted interventions and personalized support to help these students succeed academically. Through various initiatives such as tutoring, after-school programs, professional development for educators, and parental involvement activities, Title I strives to empower underachieving students and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in core academic subjects and thrive in their educational journey.
Title II, Part A
AP®, Honors, & Electives; Dual Enrollment; Career & Technical Education
Title II, Part A supports professional development for teachers and principals. For Dual Enrollment programs, this means providing professional development opportunities for teachers to obtain the necessary teaching credentials. To be qualified to teach college-level courses, most states require teachers to have at least a master’s degree and 18 graduate hours in the subject they wish to teach. Funding from Title II, Part A ensures that teachers are equipped with the expertise and qualifications needed to deliver high-quality instruction in Dual Enrollment programs, enabling students to seamlessly transition into college-level coursework.
Title IV: Student Support & Academic Enrichment (21st Century Schools)
AP®, Honors, & Electives; Dual Enrollment; Career & Technical Education
The Title IV Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grant (SSAE) encompasses three categories of permissible activities: providing well-rounded educational opportunities, promoting student safety and wellness, and facilitating effective technology use. SSAE funds can be utilized for STEM education (including computer science), music and arts programs, foreign language instruction, AP®/IB courses, American history, civics, economics, geography, social studies, and government education. Extended learning opportunities can include programs that partner with in-demand fields of the local workforce or build career competencies and career readiness.
IDEA
AP®, Honors, & Electives; Dual Enrollment; Career & Technical Education
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal program that provides financial support to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services. IDEA funds are used to support a wide range of purposes, including special education programs, related services, early intervention services, professional development for educators, and assistive technology. The funding aims to ensure that students with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate education that meets their unique needs.
College & career readiness programs
Preparing students for college-level learning and career development
AP®, Honors, & Electives
Advanced-level programs that allow high school students to earn college credit or pursue additional areas of study outside of their required core curriculum
Career & Technical Education
Programs that prepare middle school and high school students for next generation careers and popular industry certifications
Dual Enrollment
College-level courses that allow high school students to earn dual credit and complete general education requirements before their freshman year
Learning platforms
Pearson's online learning platforms offer a comprehensive range of digital tools and resources to support educators and students in their learning journeys. These platforms provide interactive content, personalized learning experiences, and data-driven insights that enhance educational outcomes.