Hempstead ISD was presented with a Jobs and Education for Texas (JET) Grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) at the Texas Workforce Commission Regional Jobs and Education and Texans Grant Check presentation held at Alvin Community College on Thursday, September 7. Hempstead ISD was awarded a total of $567,386.
The JET program provides grants to eligible organizations to purchase and install equipment necessary for the development of career and technical education (CTE) courses or programs that lead to a license, certificate, or post-secondary degree in a high-demand occupation.
With $567,683 in funding, Hempstead ISD plans to completely renovate its CTE program, benefiting its welding students, by providing state-of-the-art equipment and tools, setting them on a path to success in the workforce.
Hempstead ISD is dedicated to preparing students for real-world careers, and this grant will not only assist students with their classwork but will help prepare them for the workforce.
“By investing in our welding program, we are not just lifting up our students; we are sending a powerful message to all those in skilled trades,” Diana Wood, coordinator of advanced academics & CTE said. “We are telling them that their contributions are valued and vital to our community and economy. In Hempstead ISD we are empowering the future builders, makers, and innovators of our community and beyond.”
During the check presentation, 13 schools additional school districts and colleges were presented with grant checks. Commissioner Aaron Demerson of the Texas Workforce Commission was present to congratulate each of the grant recipients and to thank them for creating more opportunities for economic development now and in the future.
Demerson expressed his gratitude and thanked each recipient.
"It all starts where you all are and we don't take that for granted. Thank you for the work that you are doing. Economic development in education is the secret to success."
CTE programming creates opportunities for students to be prepared for today's competitive job market. These programs offer students a practical, hands-on education that equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a variety of industries. The JET grant will ensure that the Hempstead ISD welding program is not only up to industry standards but exceeds them.
The welding shop is undergoing a complete overhaul. The project includes the installation of new welding booths, a cutting-edge plasma cutting table, virtual reality welding trainers, and more.
These enhancements represent more than just shiny new equipment; they signify the District's commitment to providing its students with the best possible education.