Perry Schools has received a $952,335 grant that’s intended to expand career exploration and technical equipment opportunities for students. The district was awarded an Ohio Career Technical Education Equipment Grant from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. “This award allows Perry Schools to expand career exploration, technical equipment and job training credentials so students can envision their future and embrace why school matters for their personal success and dreams,” Assistant Superintendent Dr. Betty Jo Malchesky said in a news release. She also emphasized the district’s mission “to inspire students to achieve personal excellence and become self-directed, lifelong learners.” The grant will support several innovative initiatives in the district, including: • Career Clusters for Elementary Students: Young learners will be introduced to various career fields through their science; Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics; and social studies units, guided by the district’s career exploration specialist, Rita Soeder. This early exposure fosters self-awareness and helps students discover their interests, the news release stated. • Middle School Career Exploration Lab: Middle school students will benefit from interest and aptitude assessments that guide their exploration of careers. They will have opportunities to visit regional career sites and participate in economic simulations. A new Career Exploration Lab will allow students to “try on” different careers, encouraging them to uncover hidden aptitudes and broaden their horizons. • High School Technology Hub: At Perry High School, an already existing Technology Hub will become an enhanced space where students can pursue certifications for in-demand job fields in Northeast Ohio, such as IT fundamentals, coding, cyber security, and pre-engineering. This aligns educational pathways with regional workforce needs, ensuring that students are prepared for the jobs of the future. Superintendent Jack Thompson, during the Sept. 17 School Board meeting, expressed his enthusiasm about the district securing the grant. “It’s outstanding that we’re going to have these funds to continue with our Tech Hub and updating and getting cutting-edge equipment to our kids,” he said. Thompson also thanked Malchesky and her team “for all of the work they have done to continue having this district to be considered a grant-rich district.”