Wednesday, September 4, 2019

Great News! Workforce Skills Capital Grant Award for ASRSD


On Thursday, August 29, the state awarded $12 million in grants to 45 schools to acquire the newest technologies to educate students and expand educational opportunities. The Skills Capital Grants are awarded by Governor Charlie Baker’s Workforce Skills Cabinet, which was created in 2015. Schools applying for the grants are asked to partner with local businesses and align curriculum and credentials with industry demand.

The district was awarded $82,951 to establish the Panther Innovation Learning Lab. Congratulations to the grant writing team: Maureen Kilcommins, Phil Moore, Steve Tulli, and Charlie Caliri. Mary Beth Hamel was the lead on the team and has been credited for bringing her leadership and outstanding expertise to the team.

The high school students will receive training in industry design software such as SolidWorks and AutoCAD and in the safe use of equipment found in the manufacturing industry.

This equipment grant will provide access to explore new career options that engage students in real world tasks utilizing software licensing and the engineering design process such as 3D modeling, prototyping, structural analysis and quality control.

This first time project has prioritized four goals:
Enhance opportunities for students to enroll in dual enrollment coursework in biotechnology, physics and engineering degree programs while still enrolled in high school or participate in advanced manufacturing certificate programs if higher education is not an option.
Provide opportunity for direct instruction and application of skills during the school day using grant funded software and equipment. After hours the lab will be utilized by robotics programs and Adult Community Education.
Develop understanding/interest in the STE(A)M industry for target populations (females, English Learners, low income students, and students with disabilities) through the design/build/test/review process.
Develop and mentor the soft skills required in the workforce- communication, time management, problem solving, and conflict resolution.