Four South Dakota Workforce Education Grants, totaling $690,245, have been awarded to four South Dakota public school districts. In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for career and technical education programs in secondary schools.

"Career and technical education is crucial in helping young people successfully prepare for their futures," said Secretary of Education Tiffany Sanderson. "These grants will expand students’ experiences in the classroom and with employers in their communities. I commend these districts for providing these opportunities."

The purpose of the grant program is to make transformative change in career and technical education programs offered in South Dakota middle and high schools. High quality CTE programs give students the knowledge, skills, and experiences to be prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce. Partnerships among secondary education, postsecondary education, and business and industry lay the foundation for modern CTE programs.