On March 29, South Dakota state CTE director and Advance CTE president Laura Scheibe testified before the House Appropriations Committee during a hearing titled “Addressing the Challenges of Rural America.” Additional witnesses were present from the Department of Education, National Rural Health Association, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.
Scheibe fielded questions from committee members and detailed South Dakota’s efforts to support secondary and postsecondary CTE students through a variety of methods, including Student Support Counselors who assist first-generation students with transportation, affordable housing and navigating postsecondary education. In addition, she illuminated the importance of Perkins funding and flexible distribution of Perkins funds.
“This federal investment means our students learn on modern, industry-grade equipment so they come out workforce ready,” Scheibe noted. “Additionally, our state's Reserve Fund, a flexible portion of Perkins, is a critical tool that allows us to further expand activities benefiting our rural communities. At the secondary level, this funding supports innovation and equipment not otherwise possible for small districts.”
In her opening statement, Scheibe highlighted that CTE is no longer a choice between training and four-year university degrees. “Rather, CTE is a ‘yes, and’” said Scheibe. “[CTE] is a pathway along a continuum that can meet learners where they are – both literally and figuratively – with stackable credentials that have workplace and personal value.”
Scheibe left lawmakers with a reminder that CTE is addressing employer and industry needs nationwide. “CTE is achieving real success for learners across the country, and the federal investment is vital to that success,” said Scheibe.
You can watch the full hearing here.
Comments