FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Yuri Calderon
Email: yuri@ssda.org
Wheatland Union High School District Secures Funds to Support Career and Technical Education Programs
Sacramento, CA— Wheatland Union High School District (WUHSD) has secured funding through the Golden State Pathways Program (GSPP) Implementation Grants to enhance and expand its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. With a $3 million contract with the California Department of Education to support the Golden State Pathways Program (GSPP), a state initiative aimed at preparing students for high-wage, high-skill, high-growth careers, and an additional $2.6 million for the Strong Workforce initiatives, which focus on workforce development and job placement, these funds will provide Wheatland UHSD students with robust career support programs.
"Wheatland Union High School District's success in securing these critical funds is a testament to the visionary leadership of Superintendent Dr. Nicole Newman," says Yuri Calderon, Executive Director of the Small School Districts’ Association. He added, "Her dedication to expanding career and technical education opportunities ensures that all students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for high-demand careers. This achievement sets a powerful example of how targeted investments in education can transform the futures of our students. Congratulations to Dr. Newman and the entire Wheatland UHSD team for their unwavering commitment to student success and workforce readiness."
Wheatland UHSD will utilize this funding to implement three unique and innovative CTE pathways: Auto Technology with an electric vehicle focus, Game Design, and Patient Care. These grants will enable the district to bring in specialized instructors, offer college-credit courses, provide industry-standard equipment, and support students in receiving relevant certifications. The initiatives also include setting up advanced learning environments such as dedicated computer labs and simulated medical offices, ensuring students gain hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills.
Furthermore, their Golden State Pathways Program (GSPP) Capitol Region Technical Assistance Center will be pivotal in supporting all LEAs in their 12-county region. They will assist in planning, implementation, and consortium grants. This includes professional development on attaining the nine required outcomes of the GSPP grant, such as integrated programs of study, offering postsecondary credits, work-based learning, industry connections, articulated two-course pathways, data reporting, integrated program of support, and sustainability and collaborative pathways. The support will include in-person training at each county, individual site visits, and targeted assistance to help achieve equitable educational outcomes.
The Small School Districts’ Association congratulates Wheatland Union High School District and Superintendent Dr. Nicole Newman on this outstanding achievement. This milestone highlights the crucial funding and support that small school districts need to excel and provides an inspiring example of the positive impacts these programs will have on students’ futures.
About SSDA:
The Small School Districts Association is dedicated to serving the needs and interests of small school districts across California, providing support, resources, and advocacy to enhance the quality of education for students in small communities. Our mission is to empower small districts through collaboration, innovation, and strategic leadership, ensuring every student has access to the best possible educational opportunities.