Maryland Awarded $9 Million Federal Grant for Statewide Career Exploration Program
Maryland has been awarded a $9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to develop a statewide career exploration program for middle and high school students. Governor Wes Moore announced that the program will target students in seventh through twelfth grades, aiming to help them create six-year plans. These plans will document students' skills, credentials, and experiences, which can then be shared with potential employers, training programs, or post-secondary education institutions. The information will be stored online in 'learner wallets' on a state-owned platform. The grant funds are also designated to expand work-based learning opportunities, including internships, student-run businesses, and registered apprenticeships, to provide practical experience for students.