HARRISBURG, Pa. — Governor Tom Wolf announced Tuesday that $1 million is available for Teacher in the Workplace grants that connect classrooms and businesses to help schools prepare students for the changing 21st-century economy.

The grants build on the governor’s commitment to strengthen partnerships between employers and educators, so teachers can provide students with the skills and understanding of thriving careers and industries in Pennsylvania.

“These grants enable teachers, administrators, and other staff to learn directly from business leaders about the skills and knowledge that students need to succeed in today’s workforce,” said Governor Wolf. “Educators can take that experience back to the classroom to better prepare students for good-paying, middle-class jobs.”

The Department of Labor and Industry is leveraging $1 million in federal funding through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act to offer the grants in partnership with the Department of Education. Business and education organizations that partner with their local workforce development boards to implement Teacher in the Workplace programs are eligible.

“Every student needs the training and skills to successfully compete for a good job,” said L&I Secretary Jerry Oleksiak. “Through Teacher in the Workplace, educators interact with local businesses so they can teach their students about various career opportunities and the skills they will need for future success.”

“Access to local business leaders, employers, and workplaces can provide an educator with valuable insight into what skills will help their students graduate college or become career ready,” Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera said. “Teacher in the Workplace is a smart investment to help bridge the gap between the classroom and local business and industry, and to shape instruction in our schools.”

In his 2018-19 budget, Governor Wolf proposed PAsmart, a new workforce development initiative to improve coordination and services across Commonwealth agencies. PAsmart provides a $50 million investment in education and job training that includes funding to encourage employers to partner with colleges and universities to develop educational programs that prepare students for high demand jobs.

Teacher in the Workplace grant information and the application is available on L&I’s website. The application deadline is April 18, 2018.

For more information about pursuing an education and career in Pennsylvania at any stage of life, visit PAsmart.