TWC grants more than US$637,000 to Laredo schools

LAREDO, TX – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) awarded two Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants in Laredo, Texas, to support vocational training for young people.

Laredo College received $304,836 to help the college purchase and install equipment to initially train 150 students in diesel mechanics.

While in collaboration with South Texas Training, Laredo ISD received $332,500 to help the district purchase and install equipment at its Dr. Leo G. Cigarroa High School campus to benefit the district’s students. Cigarroa to benefit 125 students to earn their patient care technician certification.

Other students will benefit from the equipment in future years through career and technical education courses at both institutions, TWC detailed.

“Congratulations to Laredo College and Laredo ISD for their respective commitments to shaping the future of our Texas workforce. Both training programs provide an opportunity for Laredo area students to pursue and succeed in high-demand fields,” said TWC Commissioner on behalf of labor, Julian Alvarez.

Through funds provided by the Legislature every two years, TWC JET grants are used to defray start-up costs associated with the development of career and technical education programs to public community, state and technical colleges, and school districts.

During the 87th Texas Legislative Session, open enrollment charter schools and the Windham School District were also added as eligible applicants.  Equipment funded through JET grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.

Source: MEXICONOW Staff