Board approves CTE Perkins plan and highlights Laurel Ridge trades partnerships

Rappahannock County School Board members approved the local Perkins career and technical education (CTE) plan on April 14, committing limited federal Perkins funds primarily to equipment, professional development and supports for non‑traditional students.

Presenters described the division’s Perkins allocation (roughly $17,000–$20,000) and said most funds go to equipment replacement and CTE teacher training. "The bulk of our Perkins money is really used to help with equipment because equipment costs for career and technical education courses...are quite expensive," one presenter said.

Board discussion focused on low participation in non‑traditional program concentrations (for example, females in shop or welding). Members suggested increasing exposure through middle‑school exploratory modules and tracking whether an eighth‑grade exploratory schedule introduced this year influences later enrollment in traditionally male‑dominated pathways.

Separately, members who toured the Laurel Ridge Skilled Trade Center (opened 2023) reported programs in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, welding, heavy equipment operation and fiber optics. Board members raised concern that the Fast Forward program no longer covers two‑thirds of fees for high school students and discussed local funding and community‑partnership options such as Lions Club scholarships and employer sponsorships to keep student pathways affordable.

Ending: The board approved the Perkins plan and asked staff to continue exploring funding strategies to support student access to Laurel Ridge programs.