Austin News

Governor Greg Abbot has announced that the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has awarded five dual credit grants totaling over $900,000 to five Texas independent school districts (ISD). These grants will enable the ISDs to purchase, repair, or replace equipment for career and technical education programs that provide postsecondary training to students for high-demand industries.

In a press release, Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of developing a highly skilled workforce to maintain Texas' position as the economic engine of America. He stated, "To keep Texas the economic engine of America, we must continue looking for innovative ways to develop our highly skilled, diverse, and educated workforce. These dual credit grants will help schools prepare students to enter the workforce with advanced skills that make them immediately ready to help boost Texas' growing economy. Together, we will continue to help young Texans prepare for the demands of our booming economy to build the Texas of tomorrow."

TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel highlighted the benefits of dual credit programs, stating, "Dual credit allows high school students to train for careers in high-demand jobs while completing their education." He further emphasized that TWC will continue to partner with school districts and community colleges to ensure that these programs provide students with the skills needed by Texas employers.

The five dual credit grants recipients are as follows:

- Alice ISD: a $220,000 grant for a nursing program

- Deweyville ISD: a $219,004 grant for a nursing program

- Jasper ISD: a $21,176 grant for a welding program

- Jim Hogg County ISD: a $219,970 grant for a nursing program

- Raymondville ISD: a $219,938 grant for a nursing program

The funding for these grants comes from the Skills Development Fund, which supports and expands dual credit and career and technical education programs that address the local demand for high-skill industries with good-paying jobs. These programs allow high school students to earn college credit hours while pursuing their long-term career goals, benefiting both workers and employers in Texas.

Employers, schools, and students interested in learning more about dual credit programs and other training opportunities can visit TWC's Education Services page.

This investment in workforce readiness grants demonstrates the commitment of Governor Abbott and the Texas Workforce Commission to equipping students with the skills and training necessary to succeed in the state's growing economy. By providing funding for career and technical education programs, Texas is ensuring that its workforce remains competitive and prepared for the demands of the future.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-over-900000-in-workforce-readiness-grants-to-texas-schools