The Perkins State Leadership Funds are administered by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) and approved by the Kentucky Workforce Innovation Board (KWIB). The funds are award through an application process. The applications are attempting to connect the projects or trainings directly to the strategic goals of the KWIB, and to the high demand sectors or career pathways in their area. The project must impact the entire state.
The Office of Career and Technical Education and Student Transition, working with the Kentucky Community and Technical College Systems, has developed example secondary to postsecondary career pathways leading to industry certifications, certificates, diplomas and/or degrees aligned to state in-demand industry sectors and support occupations. In planning secondary to postsecondary programs of study, local school districts and partnering postsecondary institutions shall work together to ensure programs of study are aligned and implemented to meet the specialized needs of business and industry and meet the goals of the student's individual learning plan.
Perkins State Leadership funds are awarded to eligible recipients for state level career and technical education activities. This document answers frequent ask questions.
The State Leadership Funds are designed to support various initiatives aimed at enhancing career and technical education (CTE) across the state. These funds can be allocated for programs that prepare students for high-demand careers, support individuals in state institutions, and develop CTE teachers and personnel. Additionally, permissible uses of funds include establishing statewide programs of study, creating industry partnerships, and providing professional development for educators. Importantly, funds cannot be used for administrative costs unless specifically allowed, emphasizing a focus on direct educational benefits and student outcomes.
More Information About Perkins V
The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act which amended the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins IV) was signed into law on July 31, 2018. The amended Act, now Perkins V, brings changes to the $1.2 billion annual federal investment in career and technical education (CTE). The U.S. Department of Education is looking forward to working with states to implement the new legislation which goes into effect on July 1, 2019 and provides new opportunities to improve CTE and enables more flexibility for states to meet the unique needs of their learners, educators, and employers.