Board reviews Perkins grant priorities and praises CHS culinary program; members urge more local CTE funding

Caroline County administrators presented Perkins grant priorities and CTE program updates and the board approved a nomination recognizing the CHS culinary program.

CTE staff walked the board through annual performance data and a proposed Perkins allocation of $86,387.69 for 2026–27. Staff said the division missed three performance indicators (reading proficiency for CTE concentrators, a small‑cohort graduation metric and nontraditional concentrator completion) and described targeted responses including literacy supports, strengthened senior monitoring and recruitment for nontraditional pathways.

Budget allocations presented included approximately $9,000 for general equipment, $31,533.70 for program implementation equipment (including health/medical science upgrades), $22,000 for new program/course materials (cosmetology, automotive, carpentry), $11,503.99 for CTSO competitions and supports for special populations, $11,503.00 for credential testing, and $15,750 for professional development. The proposed overall Perkins total presented was $86,387.69.

Melissa Fry highlighted Caroline High’s Culinary Arts program, led by Jasper Morton (“Chef Jazz”), noting 36 students earned ServSafe Manager certification this year, strong community service (monthly volunteer meals for residents experiencing homelessness) and competitive results at state fairs. The board moved and properly seconded the nomination of the CHS culinary CTE program for the VSBA Excellence in Workforce Readiness Award; one member abstained due to a role with VSPF, and the motion passed.

Multiple board members praised CTE programming and urged the superintendent and fiscal staff to seek more local funding to supplement Perkins, which staff said is formula‑based and cannot be increased by application. Administrators reiterated Perkins is supplemental and cannot fully fund new programs (for example, a greenhouse would require other funding). The board requested continued focus on recruiting diverse cohorts and leveraging partnerships such as Kalahari and regional employers.

Next steps: staff will submit the Perkins application as presented and continue to pursue partnerships and local budget options to expand CTE supports.