HARRISBURG – Gov. Tom Wolf has announced that $2.5 million is available for Teacher in the Workplace grants that will partner school districts with local businesses, resulting in new career opportunities for students.
“I am firmly committed to giving Pennsylvania students, workers and businesses the opportunities they need to thrive in our 21st century economy,” said Wolf.
“These grants are truly a win-win for all involved, as the vital partnerships they create will result in students being better prepared to successfully enter the workforce.”
Creating new opportunities for students and workers is an essential component of the governor’s PAsmart initiative. A new way to improve coordination between state agencies, cut red tape, and invest in people and business, PAsmart expands innovative job training for students and workers.
A total of $2.5 million in funding is available through the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) to eligible organizations who partner with their local workforce development board to implement Teacher in the Workplace programs.
These programs partner educators with local businesses to share and exchange information that can then be used to enhance students’ classroom instruction.
“A knowledge-based, 21st century economy demands a workforce that is prepared to tackle today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities,” said L&I Secretary Jerry Oleksiak.
“Developing the skilled workforce that businesses need by improving access to education, training programs, and apprenticeships for students and workers is a top priority of the Wolf Administration.”
Teacher in the Workplace programs allow teachers, counselors and school administrators to interact directly with industry and business leaders to learn about industry trends, needs and opportunities. This first-hand experience and knowledge can then be used to enhance classroom instruction, student learning and career readiness.
“Local business leaders know what skills they require in their employees to successfully run their businesses, so they are uniquely positioned to provide insight to school administrators and teachers,” said Secretary of Education Pedro A. Rivera.
“Teacher in the Workplace grants provide a critical pathway to connect classrooms with local industries so our students are best prepared to start a career, earn a certificate or enroll in college.”
The Teacher in the Workplace grants are funded through federal money made available from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act.
Eligible applicants include local education entities, businesses and chambers of commerce, labor organizations, postsecondary institutions, community-based organizations, public libraries, trade associations and economic development entities.
Additional details and the grant application can be found on L&I’s Web site. The application deadline is Dec. 21, 2018.
For more information about pursuing an education and career in Pennsylvania at any stage of life, visit PAsmart.
