Tennessee receives $100K grant to strengthen career pathways work

National college and career pathways initiative the Launch Network recognized Tennessee for its investments in Career and Technical Education (CTE) that are creating career pathways for students.The state’s Department of Education is also receiving a $100,000 grant to continue participating in a programs to strengthen its pathways work.“I am incredibly proud that Tennessee was awarded a grant for our ongoing pathways work and is being celebrated by Launch on a national scale,” said Tennessee Department of Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn. “Through historic commitments to CTE programming, effective alignment with Tennessee’s workforce needs, and important relationships with local, district, and nonprofit partners, Tennessee remains focused on strategic investments to support our students and future workforce.”The Launch Network works to drive a national agenda for college and career pathways programs and work with state and local partnerships to advance opportunities for students. In recognizing Tennessee, Launch highlighted the state’s innovative approach to providing students with early career and postsecondary development opportunities.“Tennessee's fast-improving education landscape is the result of dedicated educators and statewide investments in the development and implementation of programs of study and career pathways aligned with locally identified high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand occupations,” said Representative Mark White, Chairman, Tennessee House Education Administration Committee. “I am proud to advocate for supporting students in their job-ready skills development.”“It is important that we give all students the best possible direction, information and opportunity to effectively navigate their futures,” said Dr. Nancy Dishner, President and CEO, Niswonger Foundation. “The Niswonger Foundation is proud to participate in the Launch initiative as we reimagine how the effective use of pathways will provide earlier exposure to, and credentialing for, future careers.  This effort can ensure that we help students confidently navigate their dreams as we are building Tennessee's workforce of tomorrow.”