The Mat-Su School Board approved the Carl Perkins V grant at its regular Wednesday meeting, securing nearly $600,000 in federal funding for Career and Technical Education (also called CTE).
The grant primarily funds instructional staff with the remainder going to supplies and equipment. This investment strengthens one of the most robust CTE programs in Alaska.
New CTE Director Tyler Gilligan was at the meeting to share about CTE and what he calls his dream job. He said CTE concentrators—students who complete at least two semesters of a specialized CTE course—achieve a 98% graduation rate and a 71% success rate in college, training, or employment.
Gilligan, a former teacher of landscape, surveying, and automotive classes, said expanding access to CTE courses is his top priority. He notes that many people mistakenly believe the district is bringing back shop class.
“We’ve always had shop and other CTE courses in the district,” he said. “Those aren’t going away—we’re just adding more.”
Currently, the district offers more than 200 CTE courses and 67 hands-on programs, along with certifications in areas such as aviation and dental assistance. Gilligan oversees eight CTE pathways and 34 programs ranging from robotics to veterinary technology.
Dual-credit options are also growing. Mat-Su students logged 639 dual-credit courses last year, earning both high school and college credit. These courses extend beyond trades like welding to include subjects such as personal finance, drafting, and even leadership with Educators Rising. Gilligan plans to broaden dual credit offerings through partnerships with the University of Alaska.
Gilligan is excited that Mat-Su Central Hybrid Academy now offers hybrid CTE courses, including on-site construction classes. These give students flexible access to CTE coursework. For instance, starting next week, Colony and Palmer High Schools will provide after-school hybrid welding classes for Mat-Su Central students.
The annual Perkins grant is named for Carl Perkins, a U.S. congressman who championed funding for CTE and low-income students. Congress first passed the measure in 1984, and it continues to provide critical support for districts like Mat-Su.
Here are some events this weekend:
- It’s the final weekend for the play Aboveboard at Valley Performing Arts. You can buy tickets at VPA’s website.
- The third annual Kombucha Palooza at 203 Kombucha is on Friday and Saturday. Tom the Booch Maestro will takeover the tap with 14 favorite small batch flavors from the past year. There will also be live music, open mic, vintage vinyl, and soft pretzels from Lekker Coffee and Bakery.
- Marybeth Holleman will be signing copies of her new book Bloom Again on Saturday from 1pm to 4 pm at Fireside Books in downtown Palmer.
- There’s a bluegrass benefit concert and auction on Saturday at American Legion Post 15 at 1600 South Mystic Circle in Palmer. Proceeds will support local veterans. This free event starts at 6:30 PM. Donations are appreciated through bidding or giving. All are welcome.
- Also on Saturday is the 20th anniversary celebration of Blood-n-Fire Ministry at 244 South Sylvan Rd. in Wasilla from 3 to 6 PM. The event includes a free BBQ dinner, bake sale, craft sale, silent auction, kid fun zone, testimonials, live music, and more. Blood And Fire Ministries provides food, clothing, and shelter for those in need.