Rockdale Independent School District has been awarded a $278,064 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant to expand career and technical education (CTE) opportunities, providing students with hands-on training for careers in the health care industry.

Governor Greg Abbott recently announced that 84 JET grants totaling more than $20 million were awarded to Texas public junior, state and technical colleges, school districts and open-enrollment charter schools. Administered through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), the grants help educational institutions purchase equipment to establish or enhance CTE training programs that prepare students for high-demand careers. During the first year, the new equipment is expected to help train more than 7,400 students statewide.

“Students deserve a clear and affordable path to high paying careers,” said Governor Abbott. “Through more than $20 million in career training grants, Texas students will have the opportunity to earn licenses, certificates, or college degrees that lead to high-wage jobs. By investing in our students today, we are building a stronger Texas for generations to come.”

Rockdale ISD will use its grant to train 100 students in nursing assistant programs, including patient care technician and certified nurse aide training, in partnership with Temple College. The program will provide students with opportunities to develop practical skills and pursue credentials that can open doors to careers in health care.

“Receiving this grant allows us to create more opportunities for students to explore the health care field while gaining the skills and experience needed to pursue careers after graduation,” said Lindsey Lillard, Rockdale ISD CTE Director. “We’re proud to offer programs that connect students’ interests with real-world opportunities.”

Rockdale ISD currently offers nine CTE pathways designed to help students explore career interests and build skills for future education and employment. These pathways include Information Technology, Agriculture Mechanics, Engineering Foundations, Graphic Design, Teaching and Training, Diagnostic and Therapeutic, Animal Science, Plant Science, and Business Management.

For more information about Rockdale ISD’s career and technical education programs, visit www.rockdaleisd.net or contact the CTE department.