Fueling Career and Technical Education with ESSER Funds

08/21/2023

Fueling Career and Technical Education with ESSER Funds

Looking to upgrade your school’s career and technical education program but not sure where to get the funds? Well, we have some great news! Schools can use their ESSER III funds for career and technical education. If you haven’t taken advantage of this funding yet, the clock is ticking! ESSER III funds are set to expire in September 2024.

What are ESSER III funds?

ESSER III funds are federal funds allocated to K-12 schools to help them respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and are intended to address the impact of the pandemic on students and schools. ESSER III funds can be used for a variety of purposes, including investing in better ventilation systems, hiring additional staff and improving programs like career and technical education. Here are some more specific ways schools can use their ESSER III funds to improve their career and technical education programs:

1. Upgrade facilities

Invest in modernizing and upgrading CTE facilities, including specialized labs, workshops, furniture and equipment, to ensure students have access to state-of-the-art learning environments. At Diversified Spaces, we have a variety of CTE-focused furniture solutions like our Apprentice and Forum collections.

2. Technology integration

Purchase advanced technology and equipment relevant to specific industries, enabling students to gain hands-on experience with tools they'll encounter in their future careers.

3. Teacher professional development

Provide training opportunities for CTE educators to stay updated on the latest industry trends and teaching practices, ensuring they can deliver high-quality instruction.

4. Industry partnerships

Collaborate with local businesses and industries to establish partnerships that offer internships, apprenticeships and mentorship opportunities for students, bridging the gap between classroom learning and the workplace.

5. Credential attainment

Use funds to support students in earning industry-recognized certifications and credentials, increasing their employability and competitiveness in the job market.

6. Career exploration

Organize career fairs, workshops, and guest speaker sessions that expose students to various career paths within the CTE field, helping them make informed decisions about their future.

More CTE funding

Don’t fret! When ESSER III funds expire in September 2024, schools still have an opportunity to take advantage of Perkins funding to use towards their CTE programs.

What is Perkins funding?

Perkins funding, officially known as the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, is a federal program in the United States that provides financial support to schools and educational institutions for the enhancement and expansion of CTE programs. The grants aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for various careers and industries, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce or further education. One way schools can use this funding is to purchase specialized furniture for their CTE programs. For example, schools with culinary arts programs may use Perkins grant funding to purchase industrial-grade kitchen equipment, such as stainless steel work tables, commercial-grade mixers, and high-capacity refrigerators. Similarly, schools with construction programs can use the funding to purchase table saws, power tools and workbenches like our Apprentice Glue and Stain Bench or our Apprentice Side Clamp Bench.

Start using your funds now!

By utilizing ESSER and Perkins funds effectively, schools can transform their career and technical education programs into dynamic and responsive pathways that prepare students for success in their chosen careers. Reach out today to learn more about these two funding programs and to let us help furnish your CTE classrooms.

April 02, 2024

First Steps to Designing a Robotics Classroom

Imagine a classroom buzzing with the whirring of gears and the excited chatter of students working together. They’re not passively listening, but actively engaged. Their hands are not glued to textbooks, but manipulating tools to build a robot programmed to navigate a maze. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the power of robotics education in action. ... First Steps to Designing a Robotics Classroom

March 01, 2024

3 Benefits of Showcasing Student Art in the Classroom

In K-12 education, where subjects like math, science and language often take center stage, the importance of art can sometimes be overlooked. Contrary to popular belief that art class is simply learning how to draw or paint, it offers so much more value than just making art. It provides students with opportunities to express themselves ... 3 Benefits of Showcasing Student Art in the Classroom

February 05, 2024

Sun Prairie West High School Project Profile

Discover how our furniture is making a difference at Sun Prairie West High School! From our Forum Workbenches offering durability and project workspace for tech ed students to our Drafting Tables providing functionality and ample work surface for art class, each piece was chosen to enhance the overall learning experience and improve student outcomes. ? ... Sun Prairie West High School Project Profile

January 09, 2024

How to Choose the Right School Lab Countertop

When you think of lab safety, what comes to mind? At first thought, you may think of the protective gear students should wear upon entering the lab. You may also think of safety supplies such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers and even eyewash stations. However, one important safety element that is often overlooked is ... How to Choose the Right School Lab Countertop

December 12, 2023

How Classroom Furniture Can Inspire Geniuses

Throughout history, there have been countless geniuses who have left a lasting mark on the world. From Albert Einstein to Leonardo da Vinci, these individuals have used their intelligence and creativity to push boundaries. However, what many people fail to realize is that most of these geniuses were not born with their talents, but instead ... How Classroom Furniture Can Inspire Geniuses

October 10, 2023

4 Ways STEM Education Preps Students for 21st-Century Careers

Do you know what a doctor, engineer and IT administrator all have in common? You guessed it: a strong background in STEM education. While many professionals are already pursuing a STEM career, it may be surprising to hear there’s still a huge gap that needs to be filled. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor ... 4 Ways STEM Education Preps Students for 21st-Century Careers

September 20, 2023

7 Essential Lab Fire Safety Tips

Labs are hubs for student learning, experimentation and problem-solving! However, without the proper training and knowledge of lab safety, they can quickly turn into a fire hazard. In fact, fires are one of the most common accidents that occur in these environments. To decrease the risk of fire in your lab, it’s important to prioritize ... 7 Essential Lab Fire Safety Tips

June 21, 2023

Interdisciplinary Learning in Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Gone are the days when students could specialize in one area and expect to be successful in their careers. Today’s job market now requires a diverse set of skills and knowledge. Unfortunately, many students aren’t receiving the education needed to fill the ever-widening skills gap. In fact, 46% of learning and development leaders say the ... Interdisciplinary Learning in Career and Technical Education (CTE)

May 15, 2023

AutoCAD, Revit and CET Files: What's the Difference?

AutoCAD, Revit and CET files are essential in architecture, design, engineering, and construction to create detailed 3D models of buildings, furniture, and other architectural elements. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, understanding how these files work can be a valuable asset in your field. Let’s take a deep dive into these file types ... AutoCAD, Revit and CET Files: What’s the Difference?

March 29, 2023

4 Ways To Improve Sustainability in the Classroom

Each year, schools and universities generate about 562,442 tons of waste each year just in California. Can you imagine how much waste is produced in schools and universities across the United States? Fortunately, many schools are already reducing their environmental impact. And your school can too! There are many ways to promote sustainability and teach ... 4 Ways To Improve Sustainability in the Classroom

March 14, 2023

5 Art Classroom Design Tips To Boost Creativity

Art is one of the most important subjects in K-12 schools. It’s more than learning how to draw a tree or creating a ceramic mug. Art class allows students to develop life skills that will help them in their future endeavors. They learn how practice makes perfect and how small differences can have a large ... 5 Art Classroom Design Tips To Boost Creativity

January 26, 2023

What Is Career and Technical Education (CTE)?

“Our world has changed. In today’s highly-technical knowledge-based economy, having hands-on skills and perfecting what one is good at can be more valuable than getting a degree in ‘something’ simply to get one.” – South Central Service Cooperative Take a moment to think back to your high school years. Do you feel like your classes ... What Is Career and Technical Education (CTE)?

December 08, 2022

How To Incorporate a Think + Do = Solve Learning Approach

Have you ever tried learning something solely by watching a video? Or listening to an instructor? Chances are, you have. And you’ve also probably come to the realization that these types of “learning” aren’t very effective. After all, studies have shown when students sit and listen intently but passively in a lecture-style environment, they retain ... How To Incorporate a Think + Do = Solve Learning Approach

October 28, 2022

Our New, Revamped 2023 Catalog is Here!

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for … Our 2023 catalog is here! But, wait. There’s another surprise waiting for you – we’ve updated our catalog to make navigating and finding products easier than ever! Here are some of the main changes you’ll see while you browse through the catalog: 1. Color-coded and updated ... Our New, Revamped 2023 Catalog is Here!

September 23, 2022

The Importance of Career & Technical Education (CTE) in Schools

Meeting 21st-century skilled workforce demands has become a challenge in the United States. According to a ManpowerGroup survey from 2021, talent shortages in the U.S. have more than tripled in the last ten years, with 69% of employers struggling to fill positions, up from just 14% in 2010. So, how can we address this ongoing ... The Importance of Career & Technical Education (CTE) in Schools

August 22, 2022

White Paper: Incorporating Wood Into Hands-on Learning Spaces

Discover how wood plays a vital role in improving mental health & sustainability. In this white paper, we take a look at: What biophilic design is and how it’s become an increasingly important trend in architectural design The mental health and sustainability benefits of wood Why you should incorporate wood into hands-on learning environments Download the ... White Paper: Incorporating Wood Into Hands-on Learning Spaces

June 27, 2022

Diversified Woodcrafts Hires Lisa Zeller as Marketing Manager

Suring, WI — Diversified Woodcrafts is pleased to welcome Lisa Zeller as the new marketing manager. In this role, Zeller will lead all marketing activities and be responsible for creating a consistent story for each product line and brand. “I’m very excited to add an industry expert to our marketing team,” said Tom Franta, vice ... Diversified Woodcrafts Hires Lisa Zeller as Marketing Manager

June 17, 2022

4 Classroom Design Tips for Back to School

Did you know? Classroom design can greatly impact how both students and teachers engage in a learning environment. In fact, one study found that the physical space of schools can positively (or negatively) affect a student’s academic performance by as much as 25% in one school year. So, how do you design a learning environment ... 4 Classroom Design Tips for Back to School

June 01, 2022

Lab Safety Equipment Every Science Classroom Needs

Science is an excellent opportunity for students to engage in hands-on learning through fun and exciting experiments. But while it’s a great space for students to collaborate and learn, they will most likely be handling dangerous chemicals and equipment at the same time. Therefore, it’s imperative always to keep safety in mind, regardless of which ... Lab Safety Equipment Every Science Classroom Needs

May 17, 2022

Diversified Woodcrafts Accelerates Growth With Opening of New Location in De Pere

Suring, WI — Diversified Woodcrafts, Inc. (DWI), an industry-leading manufacturer of educational furniture and casework, is excited to announce the opening of another location in De Pere, WI. In addition to the plant in Suring, WI and the office in Crystal Springs, MS, the new facility features more office, warehouse, showroom and assembly space, and ... Diversified Woodcrafts Accelerates Growth With Opening of New Location in De Pere