The Iowa Department of Education is seeking comments on a draft state plan for meeting federal requirements under the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. Commonly referred to as Perkins V, the federal law reauthorizes the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006, which provides almost $1.2 billion in federal support for career and technical education (CTE) programs nationwide. Iowa receives nearly $12 million annually in federal Perkins funds, divided between secondary and postsecondary CTE programs delivered through public school districts and community colleges. Iowans are invited to give feedback on the state plan, and the related secondary and postsecondary accountability performance targets, through two online surveys that are open through Feb 13. In addition, town hall meetings will be held in Cedar Rapids, Council Bluffs and Johnston from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 6. The final state plan will be presented to Gov. Kim Reynolds for approval before submission to the U.S. Department of Education in April. For more information and to provide input, click here.
