Pender County Schools has been selected as one of 25 public school units across North Carolina to receive funding through the 2026–27 Career and Technical Education Grade Expansion Grant Program.
The grants are designed to expand access to Career and Technical Education opportunities for students and help school districts introduce students to career pathways at earlier grade levels. Applications from across the state were reviewed, scored and voted on by the Education and Workforce Innovation Commission before recommendations were presented to the North Carolina State Board of Education.
The State Board approved the 2026–27 grant recommendations during its September meeting. Pender County Schools was among the districts selected following what state officials described as a highly competitive application process.
For PCS Career and Technical Education Director Dominique Bates, the grant provides another opportunity to connect students with career exploration and hands-on learning before they reach the later years of high school.
“The earlier we can introduce students to different careers and help them understand how what they are learning in school connects to the world around them, the better prepared they will be to make decisions about their future.” Said PCS CTE Director Dominique Bates. “This grant gives us an opportunity to expand that work and provide more students with meaningful CTE experiences.”
Career and Technical Education programs provide students with opportunities to explore fields ranging from skilled trades and technology to health sciences, business and other career areas. PCS also works with local employers and postsecondary partners to help students connect classroom instruction with career and college opportunities.
Grant award notifications, including additional information regarding funding, are expected to be provided to recipients following the State Board's approval. Pender County Schools will share additional details about the amount awarded and how the funding will be used once those plans are finalized.
Other southeastern North Carolina districts receiving CTE Grade Expansion Grants this year include Brunswick County Schools, Cumberland County Schools and the Public Schools of Robeson County.