The Menominee Intermediate School District (MISD) is set to benefit from over $200,000 in state funding, aimed at enhancing enrollment, retention, and completion rates in adult education programs. Specifically, the district will receive $221,903 from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) total allocation of $8.7 million for adult education across the state. Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the significance of these investments, stating that they are crucial for strengthening Michigan’s workforce and economy by helping businesses find the necessary talent to expand. The funds provided can be utilized by institutions for various purposes, including hiring success coaches, developing curriculum, creating dual enrollment opportunities at community colleges, conducting outreach and marketing, adopting new technology, or enhancing supportive services for teachers.

Governor Whitmer is committed to making the largest investment in career and technical education in the state’s history, with a focus on increasing apprenticeships and offering debt-free paths to obtaining associate’s degrees or skills training certificates. This initiative aligns with the legislation introduced by Representative. Karl Bohnak (R-Deerton) aimed at bolstering career and technical education (CTE). According to a press release from the governor’s office, individuals in Michigan with a high school credential can earn over $7,600 more annually than those without one, and those with a two-year degree can earn over $24,500 more per year. To further promote adult education in Michigan, a second round of Adult Education Innovation Program grants will be available for eligible providers who missed out on the first round. Additional information and proposal submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. on April 8^th.