NextWaveSTEM Aligns with Perkins Grant: Empowering Schools to Prepare Students for the Future

Preparing students for the future of work requires more than just traditional classroom instruction—it demands innovative programs that equip them with the technical skills and critical thinking abilities needed to thrive in a technology-driven world. The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins Grant) plays a vital role in funding Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, ensuring schools can provide students with hands-on learning experiences that align with industry needs.

At NextWaveSTEM, we are proud to support schools in maximizing their Perkins Grant funding by offering cutting-edge STEM programs that prepare students for high-demand careers while empowering educators with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Grants specialist at your disposal

Navigating the grant application process can be complex, which is why we have a dedicated Grants Specialist ready to assist you every step of the way.

To make the process even easier, we provide a model grant application tailored to most Grant requirements, helping you save time and increase your chances of success. From aligning our programs with grant criteria to offering personalized guidance and documentation, our specialist ensures your school can confidently secure funding to bring transformative STEM education to your students.

Let us help simplify the process so you can focus on what matters most, the next generation of innovators.

What Is the Perkins Grant?

The Perkins Grant is a federal initiative designed to strengthen CTE programs in schools across the United States. Its primary goal is to ensure students gain the technical and employability skills necessary to succeed in the workforce. The grant focuses on:

  • Equity and Access: Providing resources to underserved and underrepresented student populations.

  • Industry Alignment: Ensuring CTE programs meet the needs of current and emerging industries.

  • Professional Development: Supporting educators with training and resources to deliver high-quality instruction.

  • Hands-On Learning: Encouraging experiential, project-based learning that connects classroom concepts to real-world applications.

 

How NextWaveSTEM Aligns with Perkins Grant Goals

NextWaveSTEM’s mission is to empower K-12 students and educators with transformative STEM and CTE solutions. Our programs are designed to meet the core objectives of the Perkins Grant, ensuring schools can easily integrate our offerings into their curriculum while leveraging grant funding. Here’s how we align with Perkins Grant priorities:

1. Equity and Access

NextWaveSTEM is committed to making STEM education accessible to all students, regardless of their background. Our programs are designed to:

  • Support Title I Schools: We offer affordable solutions tailored to schools serving low-income communities.

  • Dual-Language Materials: Our curriculum is available in both English and Spanish, ensuring inclusivity for diverse student populations.

  • Flexible Implementation: Schools can choose from in-class, after-school, or summer program options, making it easier to reach students in various settings.

2. Industry-Relevant Curriculum

The Perkins Grant emphasizes the importance of aligning education with workforce needs. NextWaveSTEM’s curriculum is built around emerging technologies that are shaping the future of work, including:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Teaching students the fundamentals of AI and machine learning.

  • Robotics: Hands-on projects that develop engineering and programming skills.

  • Drone Technology: Preparing students for FAA Part 107 certification and careers in drone piloting.

  • 3D Printing and Design: Introducing students to additive manufacturing and design thinking.

  • Data Science: Equipping students with the skills to analyze and interpret data, a critical skill in today’s economy.

    All our courses are aligned with state and national CTE standards, including ISTE, NGSS, and Common Core, in compliance with Perkins requirements.

3. Hands-On, Project-Based Learning

NextWaveSTEM’s programs are built on the 5E instructional model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate), which emphasizes active, experiential learning. Students work on real-world projects that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Examples include:

  • Building and programming robots to solve challenges.

  • Designing and 3D printing prototypes for real-world applications.

  • Using drones to collect and analyze environmental data.

These hands-on experiences not only engage students but also prepare them for the technical and problem-solving demands of the workforce.

4. Professional Development for Educators

The Perkins Grant recognizes the importance of equipping teachers with the skills and confidence to deliver high-quality CTE instruction. NextWaveSTEM offers:

  • On-Demand Training: Educators can access professional development resources anytime, anywhere.

  • Workshops and Webinars: Live training sessions that cover emerging technologies and best practices for STEM education.

  • Ongoing Support: Our team provides continuous implementation support to ensure teachers succeed in the classroom.

By investing in teacher training, we help schools maximize the impact of their Perkins Grant funding.

5. Focus on Career Readiness

NextWaveSTEM prepares students not just for academic success but for career readiness. Our programs emphasize:

  • Technical Skills: Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies.

  • Soft Skills: Collaboration, communication, and critical thinking are integrated into every project.

  • Certifications: Programs like our drone curriculum prepare students for industry-recognized certifications, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

6. Data-Driven Results

The Perkins Grant requires schools to demonstrate measurable outcomes. NextWaveSTEM provides tools and resources to help schools track and report on student progress, including:

  • Pre- and Post-Assessment Tools: Measure student growth and program impact.

  • Engagement Metrics: Track participation and engagement in STEM activities.

  • Success Stories: Showcase how students are applying their skills in real-world contexts.

Why Choose NextWaveSTEM for Your Perkins Grant-Funded Programs?

By partnering with NextWaveSTEM, schools can unlock the full potential of their Perkins Grant funding while delivering transformative STEM education. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Comprehensive Solutions: From curriculum kits to professional development, we provide everything schools need to succeed.

  • Emerging Technology Focus: Our programs prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.

  • Proven Impact: Schools across the country have seen increased student engagement, improved academic outcomes, and greater interest in STEM careers.

  • Ease of Implementation: Our ready-to-use resources save teachers time and make it easy to integrate STEM into any classroom.

 
 

Take the Next Step

The Perkins Grant is a powerful tool for schools to expand their CTE programs and prepare students for the future. With NextWaveSTEM, you can ensure your grant funding is used effectively to deliver high-quality, industry-aligned STEM education. Let us help you navigate the process and bring hands-on, career-focused learning to your students.

Contact us today to learn more about how NextWaveSTEM aligns with the Perkins Grant and how we can support your school’s STEM and CTE initiatives.