School Board approves Perkins plan and consolidated federal funding allocations

The Middlesex County School Board on May 11 approved multiple federal funding plans that the division said will support career and technical education, English‑learner services and schoolwide programs.

The board unanimously approved the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education plan and budget for 2026–27. Staff said the division will receive about $29,000 in Perkins funding and will use the money to upgrade classrooms and industry‑specific equipment, expand opportunities for students to earn industry credentials, and to develop a new sports‑medicine and athletic‑training program providing hands‑on learning in health‑care career pathways.

"For the 26–27 school year, our division will receive about $29,000 in Perkins funding," a presenter said, adding the money will help connect classroom instruction to real‑world career skills.

Separately, Kathleen Valz, director of special education programs, presented the Title III consortium application and said the division’s Title III allocation is $2,986.38; the application describes service minutes by grade and proficiency for English learners and immigrant students and funds professional development and consortium conference participation.

The board also approved the local consolidated application under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The packet listed Title I Part A funding at $416,238.90, Title II Part A at $56,386.37 for professional development and class‑size reduction, and Title IV Part A at $28,547.72 to support Compass Academy staff salary. Staff noted an additional small set‑aside (about $500–$1,000) for McKinney‑Vento supports for students experiencing homelessness.

Board members voted to approve the Perkins plan, Title III application and consolidated ESEA application by voice votes.