Central Lakes Application and Report

Central Lakes Consortia Reporting

Proposed Perkins V State Determined Performance Levels

Consortium: Central Lakes
Grant Year 6 (2026)
Updated: 3/24/2025

Overview

The following report displays Central Lakes’s actual performance for Grant Years 3-4 (2023-2024), average performance across these years for baselining purposes, and proposed State Determined Performance Levels (SDPLs) for Grant Year 6 (2026). GY6 SDPLs will be considered final upon approval of the annual revision to the state plan by the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE). Consortium leaders will be notified upon approval.

Requirements for state determined levels of performance

Requirements for state determined levels of performance require that new performance targets/SDPLs must:

  • Be expressed as a percentage or numerical form.
  • Show continuous meaningful progress toward improving the performance of all CTE students.
  • Be higher than the average actual performance of the two most recently completed program years.

Note

  • For proposed secondary SDPLs, in cases where the average actual performance of the two most recent years was lower than the actual performance of GY4 (2024), the actual performance level of GY4 (2024) was used to set the GY6 (2026) SDPL.
  • For proposed postsecondary SDPLs, a weighted formula including consortia size, performance trends, and a portion tied to the state SDPL increase was utilized. These SDPLs for GY6 (2026) will be used unless the average actual performance of the two most recent years is greater, in which case GY6 (2026) SDPLs will be minimally increased to exceed the average.

For more information on actual performance during Grant Years 1-4 (2021-2024), and for final Grant Year 5 (2025) SDPLs, please review your consortia’s annual performance report.


Proposed SDPLs table

Proposed Perkins V State Determined Performance Levels (SDPLs) for Central Lakes, Grant Year 6 (2026), with actual performance for Grant Years 3–4 and the two-year average.
Core Indicator Actual Performance Grant Year 3 (2023) Actual Performance Grant Year 4 (2024) Average Performance Grant Year 3-4 (2023-2024) Grant Year 6 (2026) State Determined Performance Levels
Secondary Performance Indicators
1S1: Graduation Rates (4-year) 92.38% 93.63% 93.01% 93.63%
2S1: Academic Proficiency: Reading/Language Arts 43.85% 45.19% 44.52% 45.19%
2S2: Academic Proficiency: Mathematics 31.37% 24.30% 27.84% 27.85%
2S3: Academic Proficiency: Science 43.20% 38.94% 41.07% 41.08%
3S1: Post-Program Placement 47.33% 49.69% 48.51% 49.69%
4S1: Nontraditional Program Concentration 31.08% 29.98% 30.53% 30.54%
5S3: Program Quality: Work-Based Learning 19.82% 22.53% 21.18% 22.53%
Postsecondary Performance Indicators
1P1: Postsecondary Retention and Placement 94.15% 95.97% 95.06% 95.07%
2P1: Earned Recognized Postsecondary Credential 57.11% 56.98% 57.04% 58.98%
3P1: Nontraditional Program Enrollment 14.50% 19.44% 16.97% 16.98%

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Perkins V Local Application

Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century (Perkins V)

AOn this page

Consortium Membership List

In the following list, include the college(s) and all secondary school districts and charter schools in your consortium. Please use the full, legal name for each entity.

College

  • Central Lakes College

Secondary schools

  • Aitkin Public Schools
  • Bertha-Hewitt Public School
  • Brainerd High School
  • Browerville Public School
  • Crosby-Ironton Public School
  • Freshwater Education District
  • Henning Public School
  • Isle Public School
  • Little Falls Public School
  • Long Prairie-Grey Eagle Schools
  • Menahga Public School
  • Onamia Public School
  • Pequot Lakes Public Schools
  • Pierz Public Schools
  • Pillager High School
  • Pine River-Backus Schools
  • Sebeka Public School
  • Staples-Motley School
  • Swanville Public School
  • Upsala Public School
  • Verndale Public School
  • Wadena-Deer Creek School

Narrative 1: Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA)

Submit a completed Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) Results and Priorities document with your application materials.

Narrative 2: Programs of Study (POS)

Submit a completed Programs of Study Spreadsheet (S-R POS – Funding POS) with your application materials.

Complete the table below for each State-Recognized POS and any POS that are being funded. Funded POS must meet two of the three categories: High-wage, high-skill, or in demand. Delete the example entries and insert additional rows as needed.

Programs of Study (POS) – Funded POS and Prior-Year Concentrators (FY 24)
Pathway Type High-Wage (Y/N) High-Skill (Y/N) In Demand (Y/N) Prior year’s number of Secondary Concentrators (FY 24) Prior year’s number of Postsecondary Concentrators (FY 24)
General Management / Business Management Both Y Y Y 150 35
Business Information Management/ Information Techn Both Y Y Y 29 7
Visual Arts Both Y Y Y 59 12
Therapeutic Services Both Y Y Y 12 119
Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance Both N Y Y 32 38
(Manufacturing) Production Both Y Y Y 59 38
Restaurants and Food Beverage Services Both N Y Y 521 14
Teacher Training Both Y Y Y 2 5
Early Childhood Development and Services Both Y Y Y 158 7
Family and Community Services Both Y Y Y 19 13
Agribusiness Systems Both Y Y Y 59 45
Power Structural and Technical Systems Both Y Y Y 230 0

CLNA prioritized needs: Programs of Study

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  • Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Programs of Study?
  • What are the strategies to address these needs?
  • What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR)
 
Need A: POS Gaps and In-Demand Occupations and This need is in Element

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☒

3☐

4☐

5☐

 There is a need to increase communication and collaboration between secondary and postsecondary instructors.

·       More communication is needed about what is expected at the postsecondary level. As we look at concentrator numbers at the postsecondary level, areas such as Information Technology, Education, Family and Community Services, Hospitality and Tourism (outside of Food/Beverage), and Marketing have the lowest.

·       Increasing communication and opportunities between secondary and postsecondary could help students understand the path towards careers.

According to the MDE Program Approval Database, we find the following: For Information Technology, while we already lack secondary courses, those opportunities students do have continue to be stand alone.  Out of our 22 schools, we do not see any “intermediate” courses in this subject. Education courses, if offered, are typically for one semester only, and it is unclear if there are opportunities outside of Human Services including Work-Based Learning or internships for most education courses. For our business teachers, most of the schools do not focus on marketing courses and stay within topics of Business Management and Accounting courses. A popular CTSO in our consortium, BPA, does not include much for marketing integration which could be a reason for not offering more marketing courses.

The Education Identity and Access Management, or EDIAM, reports, Health Science, Construction, Agribusiness Systems, Production, and Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenace had higher number of concentrators at the postsecondary level than other areas. Health Science and Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance remain low in opportunities at our secondary level while the other programs listed continue with high levels of interest. The CLNA identified Health Science and Transportation and Information Technology as lacking a supply of workers in our region. We will need to work with schools and industry to help our secondary schools in providing opportunities and instruction for our teachers to feel comfortable teaching in those areas.

Power BI reports indicate that concentrators at the postsecondary level tend to come in lower for many of our programs. Out of all consortia, Central Lakes has the third lowest number of concentrators.  A few of our programs with higher concentrators than most other consortia are in Production and Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance.

Central Lakes POS’s available are similar to other consortia throughout the state. 

For FY 26, a significant investment in Perkins Reserve postsecondary funds will be utilized for CLC’s Automotive Technology program to develop the electric vehicle portion of their curriculum.  Accreditation from the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE, is requiring electric vehicle education and training, in addition to it being a best practice.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support the purchasing of industry-standard equipment, technology, and supplemental curriculum in our Programs of Study by June 30, 2026.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Enhance communication and collaboration between secondary personnel and college faculty.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Meetings, emails, phone calls, high school visits by college faculty, and college visits from high schools.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Continue working collaboratively with Sourcewell and their Youth Skills Training Program to offer districts the ability to offer IT and computer science courses.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium & Sourcewell

Action = Provide Professional Development and student skill opportunities

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant, Sourcewell, Youth Skills Training Grant, and the Service Co-Op / Rural CTE Grant.

·       Support career exploration events and opportunities to increase student numbers

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Promoting events, encouraging attendance, and funding transportation for said activities and events.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Encourage industry partnerships and collaboration with secondary and postsecondary instructors and schools.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Serve on advisory boards, creating and maintaining industry partnerships, high school and college student industry tours and visits, and potential equipment donations.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant and potential industry funds.

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Plan and execute college instructor visits to all consortium high schools at least once per year for 2025-26.

·       Assist schools in offering CTE programs via professional development funds to research new opportunities through school visits, CTE conferences, and advisory board meetings throughout the academic year, and ultimately ending June 30, 2026.

·       Increase in collaborative consortium events (secondary and postsecondary) such as Career Exploration Day, content area meetings, and outreach to industry partners by June 30, 2026.

·       Networking opportunities for consortium teachers through content area meetings once per year to discuss curriculum, opportunities for POS, and share best practices by May 30, 2026.

NEED B: POS Opportunities

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☒

3☐

4☐

5☐

There is a need to positively contribute to Minnesota’s workforce and prepare students for future opportunities.

We reviewed in-depth information on the labor market from Real Time Talent, DEED, the local Chamber of Commerce, and local employers. The greatest employment opportunities were identified for our region and compared to existing POS. POS class sizes, courses, and student disaggregated data and interest were considered. Course alignment, sequencing, rigor, and dual enrollment opportunities were examined in relation to scope. Quality indicators included looking at course materials, Work-Based Learning opportunities, certificates, and degrees available.

On average, we have more AFNR, Business, FCS, Manufacturing, and Construction programs than other consortia. We lag in the number of programs for Health Science and WBL SPED. We’ve seen an increase in the number of schools adding a WBL Diversified program in our consortium.

The interest from districts and industry in adding programs has significantly been around Health Science and Transportation Operations/Maintenance. DEED data and news articles also show the need for an increase in computer science and software development, which we lack tremendously in our consortium. We are fortunate to have articulation agreements available in all three areas (Health Science, Transportation Operations / Maintenance, Computer Science) through Central Lakes College, so the pathway is available. Growth is hindered by the lack of programs and instructors at the secondary level. Only 9% of our secondary schools offer Health Science, 14% offer Transportation Careers, and while we have Business and Trade & Industry programs eligible to teach Computer Science/Development, schools are not offering it.

Partnership opportunities include working with local hospitals and clinics in Little Falls, Brainerd, Crosby, Pillager, Breezy Point, Pine River, Motley, Wadena, Verndale, Pierz, and Staples.

Little Falls was awarded a grant by the Minnesota Legislature to implement CDL and aviation programs into their high school, which included the purchase of a flight simulator and truck simulator. Funding included the purchase of curriculum, simulators, instructor costs, professional development, and career exploration opportunities. Representative Ron Kresha, who sponsored the bill/grant, is helping implement the program and is looking for additional funding for other districts.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support the purchasing of industry-standard equipment, technology, and supplemental curriculum in new Programs of Study by June 30, 2026.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Enhance communication and collaboration between secondary personnel and college faculty.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Meetings, emails, phone calls, high school visits by college faculty, and college visits from high schools.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Continue working collaboratively with Sourcewell and their Youth Skills Training Program to offer districts the ability to offer IT and computer science courses.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium & Sourcewell

Action = Provide Professional Development and student skill opportunities

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant, Sourcewell, Youth Skills Training Grant, and the Service Co-Op / Rural CTE Grant.

·       Support outreach, career exploration events, and opportunities to increase student numbers to positively impact Performance Indicators 3S1: Post-Program Placement, and, 4S1: Postsecondary Retention & Placement.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Funding outreach, events, encouraging attendance, and funding transportation for said activities and events.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Encourage industry partnerships and collaboration with secondary and postsecondary instructors and schools.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Serve on advisory boards, creating and maintaining industry partnerships, high school and college student industry tours and visits, and potential equipment donations.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant and potential industry funds.

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Plan and execute college instructor visits to promote program opportunities at consortium high schools at least once per year for 2025-26.

·       Assist schools in offering CTE programs via professional development funds to research new opportunities through school visits, CTE conferences, and advisory board meetings throughout the academic year, and ultimately ending June 30, 2026.

·       Increase in collaborative consortium events (secondary and postsecondary) such as Career Exploration Day, content area meetings, and outreach to industry partners by June 30, 2026.

·       Networking opportunities for consortium teachers through content area meetings once per year to discuss curriculum, opportunities for POS, and share best practices by May 30, 2026.

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. Identify any new courses, programs, or Programs of Study in development within your consortium. POS in development can be reported on the POS Funding Tab of the POS Spreadsheet, but should not be listed as a State-Recognized POS until all seven required elements are in place.
  3. How will students, including members of special populations, learn about CTE course offerings and how do you ensure access?

NOTE: Consortia must identify at least six State-recognized programs of study that represent at least four different career fields and with no more than one brokered with institutions outside the consortium. Review the Minnesota Perkins V Operational Guide for more information.

4a. 

Postsecondary

There are two Programs of Study within the consortium that are in need of development: CLC’s Automotive Technology program and Dental Hygiene program.

For FY 26, we’d like to use Reserve funds to develop CLC Automotive Technology program in their need to acquire a high voltage vehicle.  The CLC Automotive Technology program is moving forward and meeting employer needs. High Voltage (hybrid and battery electric) vehicles are increasing in sales and have been in repair facilities (both new car dealerships and independent aftermarket repair shops) for many years. Many area employers have had to turn down repairs and diagnostics for these vehicles because there are no trained technicians. CLC's Automotive program has not taught high-voltage safety until this year.

CLC's Automotive Technology advisory committee's fall 2024 meeting had a discussion on what to do and what they want the program to teach. It was discussed and voted unanimously to start to infuse high voltage safety, basic operations, and maintenance into the program. The program created innovative techniques using industry partnerships to acquire some new training models (used batteries and motors) and other education partners with shared curricular resources and started infusing some of that into the curriculum in spring 2025.

In the next program revision, starting in fall 2026, the program will be revised using the most recent (2025) industry standards, via the ASE Education Foundation program accreditation. In the new standards, ASE requires accredited programs to teach basic EV safety, maintenance, and operations.

The program is already teaching students (starting spring 2025) high voltage safety and all automotive students had achieved ASE X1 certification (high voltage vehicle safety and operations).

Another program that received Reserve funding last year was the Dental Hygiene program Central Lakes College, which is a career option in the therapeutic health sciences pathway.  This is an in-demand, high-skill, high-wage career.  CLC will launch the Dental Hygiene Program in the Fall of 2025, serving 15 students per year.  Reserve funding will also be used in FY 26 to continue developing this program.

Secondary

At the secondary level, schools will continue working to develop the therapeutic health sciences pathway and start building transportation careers, information technology, and education programs.  Secondary also recognizes the need to develop other new programs of study as teacher turnover impacts what programs and courses will be offered at the school districts. 

4b. 

Secondary

The consortium continues to offer, attend, and coordinate career fairs, career videos, and career exploration activities.  We will continue to support and encourage CTE classes by taking field trips to the postsecondary campus to tour and embed with CTE programs to get hands-on experiences and meet current students and instructors.  CTE teachers in career-planning and CTE courses use materials and opportunities to promote CTE to students extensively. Specific outreach happens for special populations through specialized social media campaigns, outreach to groups of students from special populations, and 1:1 advising sessions with students. 

The Central Lakes Perkins Consortium will also embrace and utilize a common marketing schema that is available on the MACTA website.  This is necessary because there are numbers of students transferring districts and across consortia. Common and consistent identification will benefit students and enable them to recognize CTE programs. Additional emphasis will be placed on working with economically disadvantaged students. Attention to narrowing the gaps found for this special population in four of the five accountability performance indicators will be shared through communication and action with district administration, school teachers, staff, and counselors for collaboration.

Postsecondary

CLC will work closely with high school counselors, teachers, and Sourcewell Career Consultants to connect with students about CTE opportunities and careers.  We will work with industry partners to provide more stories from individuals of special populations on their work and success in the career fields so students can see real, local examples of themselves in careers and occupations.

For both secondary and postsecondary, the efforts to inform special populations about POS opportunities will be funded with career exploration opportunities, college tours and events, and specific outreach campaigns under Narratives 5, 9, and 11.  Narrative 2 funds are not used for outreach activities.

Narrative 3: Collaboration with local workforce development boards and other local workforce agencies

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to collaboration with local workforce development boards or other local workforce agencies?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR.)

NEED A: Continued collaboration with Rural MN CEP and workforce agencies

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☒

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☐

There is a need to increase Work-Based Learning opportunities within the consortium.  According to the EDIAM:

 

5S3: Program Quality: Work-Based Learning

2nd year- Consortium Level - 22.53% / State- 16.04%

·       Of those reporting data, 100% of consortium schools exceeded the SDPL.

·       9 consortium schools exceeded the state average.

·       The consortium has similar or higher percentages in Special Population for the state.

2.    Strategies to address need:

·       Increase WBL placement opportunities at local businesses

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium & Rural MN CEP

Action = Serve on advisory boards, and, creating and maintaining partnerships

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant & Rural MN CEP.

·       Continued collaboration on career exploration events and job fairs

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium & Rural MN CEP

Action = Serve on advisory boards, and, creating and maintaining partnerships

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant & Rural MN CEP.

 

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Increase WBL placements by 5% by June 30, 2026.

·       Noted attendance or participation at advisory board meetings for all CTE Programs of Study. All CTE instructors will be encouraged to attend/participate in at least one outside organization’s advisory board meeting and/or host a minimum of two advisory board meetings to receive input by June 30, 2026.

  1. Describe how your consortium, in collaboration with local workforce development boards and other local workforce agencies, one-stop delivery systems, and other partners, will provide:
  2. Career exploration and career development coursework, activities, or services including an organized system of career guidance and academic counseling.
  3. Career information related to high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industry sectors or occupations as identified by the comprehensive local needs assessment.
  4. Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) with Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DEED VRS) and adult education programs

1a, b, and c:

Secondary

Work-Based Learning opportunities will expand as more secondary teachers are licensed in this area. Area businesses support Work-Based Learning for students and recognize the benefits of this applied learning method. Collaboration and planning with advisory boards will aid in Work-Based Learning development and coordination between businesses, industries, the school districts. We will work with Sourcewell to continue to provide WBL endorsements opportunities to school districts.  SchooLinks is a new, online system connecting students with potential employers.  Sourcewell provides funding and training for SchooLinks.  More development and communication will continue throughout the next academic year.

Postsecondary

The CLC Career and Transfer Center works closely with CareerForce and Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (RMCEP) to develop strategies for career exploration and development through joint training opportunities and community job fairs.  CLC staff participate and serve on the Workforce Development Board.  CLC jointly advises adults and youth enrolled in RMCEP programs regarding career opportunities, training programs, and placement services. 

 

CLC will also make a concerted effort to invite Rural MN CEP to participate in advisory boards and / or advisory board meetings.

There is no specific funding request for this narrative line item – activities are done in-kind or are funded through other narrative strategies where we collaborate with CareerForce and Rural MN CEP staff on projects.  

Workforce Center Collaboration

Enter information into this table as it applies to your consortium. This table does not self-tabulate. Add totals from Postsecondary Subtotal (line 3) and Secondary Subtotal (line 6) and enter that figure in Total (line 7). If there is no total or dollar amount in a line, enter Zero (0) in the corresponding spot.

 

Workforce Center Collaboration

Total

1.

(POSTSECONDARY) Total Perkins funds used in collaboration with WorkForce Centers

0

2.

(POSTSECONDARY) Estimated expenditure/in-kind contributions used in collaboration with Workforce Centers

0

3.

Postsecondary Subtotal

0

4.

(SECONDARY) Total Perkins funds used in collaboration with WorkForce Centers

0

5.

(SECONDARY) Estimated expenditures/in-kind contributions used in collaboration with Workforce Centers

0

6.

Secondary Subtotal

0

7.

TOTAL

0

 

There is no specific funding request for this narrative line item – activities are done in-kind or are funded through other narrative strategies where we collaborate with CareerForce and Rural MN CEP staff on projects.   

Narrative 4: Integrated Academic and Technical Skills

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Integrated Academic and Technical Skills?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR)

NEED A: Math and Reading Scores

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☒

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☐

 There is a need to increase consortium-level reading and math proficiency.  Data is found in the EDIAM:

2S1: Academic Proficiency: Reading / Language Arts

2nd year- Consortium Level- 45.19% / State- 50.60%

·       Of those reporting data, 94% of consortium schools exceeded the SDPL

·       5 consortium schools exceeded the state average

·       Ethnicity other than white in our consortium is low. Ethnicity does not have large difference between consortium and state.

·       The Special Populations of special education, economically disadvantaged, and nontraditional have similar scores between consortium and state.

2S2: Academic Proficiency: Mathematics

2nd year- Consortium Level- 24.30% / State- 33.05%

·       Of those reporting data, 70% of consortium schools exceeded the SDPL

·       5 consortium schools exceeded the state average

·       Ethnicity other than white in our consortium is low. Ethnicity does not have large difference between consortium and state

·       Nontraditional students at the state level have a higher percentage than our consortium.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support the purchasing of industry-standard equipment, technology, and supplemental materials

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 20% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Continue promotion of professional development for instructors regarding math and reading integration into CTE classes.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Promotion and encouragement of PD

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Integrating math and reading into CTE curriculum utilizing resources online that may not require additional professional development, but may have a cost factor.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund supplemental resources

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Collaborate with Sourcewell for industry-recognized certifications, i.e., Snap-On. These types of opportunities specifically assist with math and measurement skills. This will include precision measuring and can lead to student certification.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium & Sourcewell

Action = Continued promotion of certifications and Sourcewell’s STEMbound

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Central Lakes College – continued utilization of the MinnState Math Pathway Grant to support students through successful course completion or through math components of their program courses in CTE programs: Diesel Equipment Technician, Machine Tool Technologies, Heavy Equipment Operations and Maintenance, Automotive Technology & Marine and Powersports.

Who = CLC instructors

Action = Continued use of the MinnState Math Pathway Grant to increase student success

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = MinnState Math Pathway Grant

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Increase in reading and math scores / proficiency by 2% for concentrators and participants for 2025-26.

·       Use funds for math and reading integration in CTE during the 2025-2026 academic year.

 

NEED B: Post-Program Placement

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☒

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☐

There is a need to continually promote and encourage post-program placement in our consortium.  Data from EDIAM shows:

3S1: Post-Program Placement.

State- 63.16%

2 year- 20.33%

4 year- 40.66%

Employment- 4.07%

Consortium Level - 49.69%

2 year- 25.0%

4 year- 22.21%

Employment- 3.93%

We experienced an increase in the percentage of students in a post-program placement over the last year. We exceeded the state’s average of 2-year placement.  Central Lakes’ 4-year placement is below the state average and employment % is similar. Special Populations demonstrates a slightly lower percentage than the state average. This is a continued area of improvement going forward.

4S1: Nontraditional Program Concentration

2nd year- Consortium Level- 29.98% / State- 28.39%

·       Of those reporting data, 94% of consortium schools exceeded the SDPL.

·       9 consortium schools exceeded the state average.

·       All special populations percentages for the consortium were higher than the state.

5S3: Program Quality: Work-Based Learning

2nd year- Consortium Level- 22.53% / State- 16.04%

·       Of those reporting data, 100% of consortium schools exceeded the SDPL.

·       9 consortium schools exceeded the state average.

·       The consortium has similar or higher percentages in special population for the state.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Fund training for high school instructors about skills, equipment, and technology, that is beneficial to students to help them understand the need for continued education and training at the post-secondary level.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Funding opportunities to participate in training, workshops, and post-secondary activities and events.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Promote Articulated College Credit agreements and CIS courses as opportunities leading into post-secondary education. Achieving college credit at the high school level could lead to more students understanding the process for getting into college, having a head start on college, and the ability to save money still attending a post-secondary school.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund the CTE CreditMN website, communicate and collaborate with high school and college faculty.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

 

·       Promote postsecondary education to prospective CTE students through targeted informational documents and mailings, social media, open houses, on-campus events, and other prospective student events.

                 Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

 Action = Provide funding for outreach in the form of mailings, social media, open houses, on-campus events, and other prospective student events.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Increase the number of high school students pursuing higher education throughout the academic year and until June 30, 2026.

·       Increase in postsecondary CTE program numbers by 1% for the fall 2026 start, as seen in data collected after classes begin at CLC.

 

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. How will your consortium improve both the academic and technical skills of students in CTE programs?
    • By strengthening the academic and career and technical components of such programs
    • Through integration of coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant CTE programs
    • To ensure learning in subjects that constitute a well-rounded education (as defined in section 8101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965).

4a.

Secondary

The consortium will support industry-recognized credentials and certificates, such as OSHA 10, Microsoft Office, and ServSafe.  The Central Lakes Perkins Consortium will support schools that want to continue the use of certification testing for up to three years, while also encouraging other schools and programs to utilize these opportunities.  The integration of these assessments and certificates provides an awareness for necessary enhancements to the curriculum to build related skills into student learning outcomes. These certificates are available to all programs and not restricted to those identified as priority spending POS.

We will start to explore opportunities to integrate more math and reading into CTE courses. Providing resources for our instructors will be necessary, as time constraints for our instructors and their courses is already tight. Examples could include using Snap-On Certifications, working with licensed math and reading teachers, and creating content.

The Central Lakes Perkins Consortium abides by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): 

The primary source of federal aid to elementary and secondary education is the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA)—particularly its Title I-A program, which authorizes federal aid for the education of disadvantaged students. The ESEA was initially enacted in 1965 “to strengthen and improve educational quality and educational opportunities in the Nation’s elementary and secondary schools.” The ESEA has been comprehensively amended and reauthorized several times since its initial enactment. It was most recently comprehensively amended and reauthorized by the Every Student Succeeds Act in 2015, which was enacted “to ensure that every child achieves.” The ESSA authorized appropriations for ESEA programs through FY2020. FY2023 appropriations for ESEA programs are $29.0 billion.

Under Title I-A, the ESEA as amended by the ESSA continues to require states and public school systems to focus on educational accountability as a condition for the receipt of grant funds. Public school systems and individual public schools are held accountable for monitoring and improving achievement outcomes for students and closing achievement gaps, sustaining a focus that was initiated by amendments to the ESEA made by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, but modified under the ESSA. While states were given more latitude to develop their educational accountability systems under the ESSA provisions, as a condition for receiving Title I-A funds each state must continue to have content and academic achievement standards and aligned assessments in reading/language arts (RLA), mathematics, and science for specific grade levels. States must now have an accountability system that incorporates (1) long-term and interim performance goals for specified measures; (2) weighted indicators based, in part, on these goals; and (3) an annual system for meaningful differentiation that is used to identify schools that need additional support to improve student achievement.

Postsecondary

Most CTE programs include a math and / or communications / writing course within their diploma, degree, or academic pathway.  Here are few examples of CTE classes that integrate components of math, reading, and writing:

BUSN 1131 - Business Math

BUSN 1166 - Business Communications

ENGL 1422 - Practical Writing

ENGL 1521 - Technical Writing Fundamentals

MATH 1500 - Applied Math

CLC is utilizing the MinnState Math Pathways Grant to support CTE students in achieving mathematical success.  The goal is to support students through successful completion of either a specific course (supplemental instruction/support for MATH 1500: Applied Math for students in DHET and MTTS) or through the math components of their program courses (bootcamp for HEOM). Outcomes that will be comparable with past metrics by the end of this year are course and program completion rates. The extension of the Math Pathways grant for CTE was made to cover these efforts during FY 26 and FY 27.

Data from the HLC Student Success Academy, the NAPE Equity Self-Assessment, the Minnesota State Equity 2030 framework, and data from CLC program assessments, will be used to analyze and make suggestions on continued integration and improvement of academic skills with technical skills. 

Narrative 5: Special Populations

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Special Populations?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR)

NEED A: Course Offerings

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☒

There is a need to increase Special Populations participation.  The CLNA shows:

Data from Element #1 provided initial information on performance and enrollment for students of special populations into CTE programs. Also examined were potential processes and structural procedures that may or may not encourage students of special populations to participate in CTE courses. This included a review of outreach materials, advising practices, accommodation processes, and recruitment processes.  This involved consultation with administrators, educators, counselors, students, parents, and special population groups.

High school teachers, students, and administrators identify class schedule constraints and time conflicts as the main reason that CTE areas have trouble expanding their offerings and adding POS. 32% of students state that CTE courses conflict with other courses they must take which eliminates the opportunity to take classes of interest. 28% of students say they are interested in programs that are not available at their school, especially Ag, Business, FCS, and Health Science.

84% of administrators believe class schedule constraints and time conflicts are holding back our CTE programs and not allowing students to explore their interest areas.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Funding professional development for any CTE instructor who would like to learn more about supporting special populations. We will encourage instructors to collaborate with their SPED department to generate ideas on ways to support our special population in SPED.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund attendance at the CTE For All workshop and support program approval for WBL SPED.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Continue to promote CTE courses and programs to all students. The CLNA showed that there is a lack of knowledge about CTE courses. Instructors will be encouraged to generate ideas on how we can better promote CTE. Ideas include CTE night, creating a website for each school to share what is happening in their building, and work with industry partners.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Collaborate with consortium high schools and teachers to develop ideas and approaches.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Support and expand career exploration opportunities that would include CTE courses. We also need to work on making the connection between skills students have (even outside of CTE) and how it can translate to a career.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund career exploration events, industry tours, and college visits.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       In next year’s CLNA, we’d like to see an increase in CTE awareness from all stakeholders.  The CLNA results will be available in February 2026.

·       Increase in post-program placement of special population students by 5% by the beginning of fall 2026 college classes starting.

 

NEED B: Special Populations

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☒

 There is a need to increase awareness and participation within Special Populations.  The EDIAM data indicates:

The Central Lakes Perkins Consortium is within 2% of the state average for participants and concentrators:

Total 2024 Secondary Participants: 3,935 in 2024 (3,754 in 2023) (4,003 in 2022) (3,825 in 2021)

45.5% of all participants qualify as Economically Disadvantaged (43% in 2023) (36.2% in 2022) (39.9% in 2021)

38% of all participants are Nontraditional (42.6% in 2023) (40.8% in 2022) (40% in 2021)

51% of all participants were female (51% in 2023) (52% in 2022) (51% in 2021)

Total 2024 Secondary Concentrators: 3,217 in 2024 (2,596 in 2023) (2,391 in 2022) (2,182 in 2021)

39% of all concentrators qualify as Economically Disadvantaged (43.2% in 2023) (41.6% in 2022) (44.9% in 2021)

49.3% of all concentrators are Nontraditional (52.9% in 2023) (51.4% in 2022) (49.3% in 2021)  

31% in of all concentrators were female (41% in 2023) (40% in 2022) (39.9% in 2021)

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support purchases of industry-standard equipment so students see the relevance of what is in the workplace today is available at their school as well. Providing all students with the ability to work on industry-standard equipment that is safer may allow more students an opportunity to take courses in CTE.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment and technology requests with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Funding professional development for any CTE instructor who would like to learn more about supporting special populations. We will encourage instructors to collaborate with their SPED department to generate ideas on ways to support our special population in SPED.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund attendance at the CTE For All workshop and support program approval for WBL SPED.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Continue to promote CTE courses and programs to all students. The CLNA showed that there is a lack of knowledge about CTE courses. Instructors will be encouraged to generate ideas on how we can better promote CTE. Ideas include CTE night, creating a website for each school to share what is happening in their building, and work with industry partners.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Collaborate with consortium high schools and teachers to develop ideas and approaches.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Support and expand CTE outreach and career exploration opportunities.  We also need to work on making the connection between the skills and interests students have and how they can translate into a career after high school.  This directly correlates to Performance Indicators 3S1 and 4S1.  Outreach is targeted toward high school seniors in Minnesota, who’ve expressed an interest in one or more of CLC’s CTE programs, or are undecided.  Special Populations students will be included in these opportunities.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund outreach, printed informational documents or publications, career exploration events, industry tours, and college visits.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       In next year’s CLNA, we’d like to see an increase in CTE awareness from all stakeholders.  The CLNA results will be available in February 2026.

·       Increase in post-program placement of special population students by 5% by the beginning of fall 2026 college classes starting.

 

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. How will you address the barriers to access and success for special populations within CTE programs identified in your CLNA?
  3. How will you prepare special populations for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand occupations that will lead to self-sufficiency?
  4. What new initiatives will you develop to better prepare CTE participants for non-traditional fields?
  5. How will you ensure members of special populations will not be discriminated against and have equal access to CTE?

4a, b, and c: In reviewing the data from our CLNA process, we determined that the Special Populations of focus where we can create the most impact are economically disadvantaged students and nontraditional students.  Barriers for these students were identified as funding and basic needs such as food, housing, childcare, transportation, and physical and mental health.

We will use multiple approaches to support career exploration, enrollment, retention and success for special populations in CTE programs.  We will provide support for career days, career fairs, career exploration events, visits to business and industry sites, customized career exploration support through career videos, virtual visits, and visits by advisory board members will inform and create interest in career fields that are high-skill, high-wage, or high-demand occupations.  We are also supporting more visits to the college campuses where students can be embedded with current students and faculty to experience classes, career opportunities, and what a college program is like.  We will focus on creating outreach campaigns for these special populations and career exploration and placement content that represent successful stories from individuals from these special populations. 

At the secondary level, many students do not recognize non-traditional career fields as options. Health careers hold multiple opportunities for male students. Funds will support opportunities for students to engage in outreach and collaboration in non-traditional areas via planned events, career exploration activities, and promotion of career pathways.

At the postsecondary level, CLC is utilizing a case management advising model that will provide additional outreach and proactive advising support for students.  CLC has also created a Basic Needs Hub and Wellness Hub that will provide food and other necessities for students and mental health support.  While Perkins funds will not be used for the Basic Needs Hub and Wellness Hub, they are critical strategies to reduce the barriers faced by students.   

One example on the postsecondary side is that the Central Lakes Perkins Consortium will plan and facilitate the “Girls in Trades” event that was very successful in pre-COVID years.  This event brought high school students to the college to work with current students and faculty to better understand the career opportunities available for them and meet non-trad students enrolled in the programs. 

4d: Secondary

The 22 school districts in the consortium are public schools and subject to state and federal laws.  These laws mandate nondiscrimination and provide equal educational opportunities for all students.  School districts do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or age. The school districts also make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. We can also encourage WBL SPED to have program approval and access funds to allow for more opportunities for their students.

Legal references may include:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)

Minn. Stat. 121A.03, Subd. 2 (Sexual, Religious, and Racial Harassment and Violence Policy)

42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. (Americans with Disabilities Act)

20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq. (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq. (title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964)

4d: Postsecondary

Central Lakes College is a public college and adheres to federal and state non-discrimination policies:

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a national law that protects qualified individuals from discrimination based on their disability. The nondiscrimination requirements of the law apply to employers and organizations that receive financial assistance from any Federal department or agency, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). These organizations and employers include many hospitals, nursing homes, mental health centers and human service programs.

Section 504 forbids organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. It defines the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in, and have access to, program benefits and services.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Title IX protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. Title IX states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination based upon race, color, and national origin.  Specifically, 42 USC 2000d states that “No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”  The use of the word “person” is important as the protections afforded under Title VI apply to anyone, regardless of whether the individual is lawfully present in the United States or a citizen of a State within the United States. 

Title II of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires state/local governments to give people with disabilities an equal opportunity to benefit from all of their programs, services, and activities. State/local governments can’t deny people with disabilities the chance to participate or make them participate in different programs than available to others.

Central Lakes College also follows and adheres to Minnesota State College and University policies.  Policy 1B is the Equal Education and Employment Opportunity policy: Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and Central Lakes College are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law.

Embedded within the policy are Minnesota State system procedures 1B.1, 1B.2, 1B.3, and 1B.4.

Policy 1B.1 states: Subpart A. Equal opportunity for students and employees. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities has an enduring commitment to enhancing Minnesota’s quality of life by developing and fostering understanding and appreciation of a free and diverse society and providing equal opportunity for all its students and employees. To help effectuate these goals, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and nondiscrimination in employment and education.

Subpart B. Nondiscrimination. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. In addition, discrimination in employment based on familial status or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited.

Harassment on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or familial status is prohibited. Harassment may occur in a variety of relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and other relationships with persons having business at, or visiting the educational or working environment.

This policy is directed at verbal or physical conduct that constitutes discrimination /harassment under state and federal law and is not directed at the content of speech. In cases in which verbal statements and other forms of expression are involved, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities will give due consideration to an individual's constitutionally protected right to free speech and academic freedom. However, discrimination and harassment are not within the protections of academic freedom or free speech.

The system office, colleges, and universities shall maintain and encourage full freedom, within the law, of expression, inquiry, teaching and research. Academic freedom comes with a responsibility that all members of our education community benefit from it without intimidation, exploitation or coercion.

This policy shall apply to all individuals affiliated with Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, including but not limited to, its students, employees, applicants, volunteers, agents, and Board of Trustees, and is intended to protect the rights and privacy of both the complainant and respondent and other involved individuals, as well as to prevent retaliation or reprisal. Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary or other corrective action.

This policy supersedes all existing system, college, and university equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policies.

Perkins V defines special populations as individuals with disabilities; individuals from economically disadvantaged families, including low-income youth and adults; individuals preparing for non-traditional fields; single parents, including single pregnant women; out-of-workforce individuals; English learners; homeless individuals; youth who are in, or have aged out of the foster care system; and youth with a parent who is a member of the armed forces and is on active duty.

Narrative 6: Work-Based Learning

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Work-Based Learning?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR.)

 

NEED A: Graduation and Work-Based Learning

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☒

2☐

3☐

4☐

5☐

There is a need for students to graduate high school and offer Work-Based Learning opportunities for all students in our consortium.  Data from EDIAM shows:

From 2023-2024 Secondary:

·       Graduation rate is steady and is within 0.5% of the SDPL.

·       Graduation rate among economically disadvantaged students is stable and the consortium is above the state actual.

·       Graduation rate among nontraditional students is steady and aligns with state actual.

·       Work-Based Learning has increased significantly in 2024 and we remain above the SDPL.

1S1: Graduation Rate (4-year) - Consortium Level- 93.63% / State- 93.29%

11 of 22 schools exceeded the state average.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1G86oizrMonKDAczO-TPgafoeMFv1jY0soGljMSDJZfo/edit?usp=sharing

Graduation rates continue to be similar to the rest of the state. Special education and economically disadvantaged students are graduating at a lower rate than the entire consortium. Nontraditional students are graduating at a lower rate than other subgroups. Regardless, these numbers are higher than the SDPL for those groups.

 

High schools within the consortium lack dedicated time, as recommended by MDE, to plan, coordinate, and enhance WBL opportunities.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support the purchasing of industry-standard equipment that students may see or use at WBL sites and enter that experience with the ability to gain and enhance their knowledge while at the WBL site.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Funding professional development for any CTE instructor who would like to learn more about supporting special populations. We will encourage instructors to collaborate with their SPED department to generate ideas on ways to support our special population in SPED.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund attendance at the CTE For All workshop and support program approval for WBL SPED.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Work to ensure all consortium schools have access to an approved Work-Based Learning program.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Assist with program approvals and support positive and effective communication with industry partners.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Increase high schools offering WBL up to 21 schools by May 30, 2026.

·       Increase WBL participation by 2% by May 30, 2026.

·       Increase CTE concentrators participating in WBL by 1-2% by May 30, 2026.

 

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. Describe the current Work-Based Learning opportunities provided to students enrolled in CTE programs at the secondary and postsecondary levels.
  3. Describe how your consortium will partner with employers to develop or expand Work-Based Learning programs for all CTE students, including special populations, at both the secondary and postsecondary levels.
  4. Describe how your consortium will invest financial resources to increase Work-Based Learning opportunities at the secondary and postsecondary levels.

NOTE: In Minnesota, work-based learning serves as a program quality indicator at the secondary level. Data for this indicator is collected from students enrolled in a Work Experience course (course code 97) that provides at least 40 hours of work experience. Experiential learning activities such as career fairs and job shadows are not captured in the performance indicator data.

1a, b, and c:

Secondary

The POS worksheet indicates that 20 of the districts in the consortium have Work-Based Learning opportunities. Students in these districts can earn academic credit and on-site job skills. Several of the districts have school stores and greenhouses that allow for experiential learning as they apply skills and knowledge learned in the classroom to these enterprises. Some consortium’s districts cannot offer WBL at business and industry sites, given their rural settings and geographic locations.  So, they may offer experiential learning through entrepreneurial courses. In several of the districts, integrated CTE programs work across disciplines to run the business. Preliminary discussions have occurred at the Northwest Regional Perkins Consortia level to seek opportunities for these to become recognized WBL experiences. More time is needed for this to come to fruition. Other districts have work release programs where learning not recognized for credit is used for development of skills needed to be successful in the workplace. Survey responses gathered in the CLNA process indicated districts that have WBL, experiential learning, and entrepreneurial courses offer these opportunities to all students at registration to become enrolled in the courses/programs.

We will continue to work with districts who do not currently have a WBL program in place to understand their barriers and provide them with opportunities to grow a WBL program.

Secondary Work-Based Learning programs are available at 20 of our 22 consortium districts. WBL settings are found in manufacturing, business, equipment repair, and culinary arts.  WBL has been an area of growth for the consortium. The secondary reserve budget will reflect investment in growing this mostly through assisting with Work-Based Learning endorsements and professional development. Survey responses gathered in the CLNA process indicated districts that have WBL offer this opportunity to all students enrolled in the courses/programs.

It is important to know that it is nearly impossible for every student to have access to the WBL opportunity, especially if in-school WBL opportunities are not counted as valid WBL experiences.  Employers cannot handle the volume of providing every single student with some type of WBL opportunity.  We strongly advocate for counting school-based WBL opportunities, such as a school store, as valid WBL experiences to help achieve the goal of having every student have access to a WBL opportunity.  We work very creatively to try and provide every student with a WBL opportunity while not overwhelming our employers.

In addition to WBL classes and internships, the consortium partners with Sourcewell Career Pathways programs, Workplace Connections, and other programs to provide informational interviews, job shadowing, and other work-based experiences for students.  During the 2024-2025 academic year, Sourcewell hosted 4 WBL cohort meetings for our consortium. Sourcewell will look to continue offering these cohort options next year.

 

The Central Lakes Perkins Consortium will invest financial resources to assist secondary teachers with time away from the classroom to work on the WBL certification. Financial support for these efforts can be found in Narrative 8 and in development of new programs tab in the reserve secondary budget.

Postsecondary

CLC affords students numerous opportunities to complete clinicals, field observations, internships, and practica during a student’s academic experience.  Internships are available for credit in nearly every program at CLC.  Internship classes for credit are required in the following programs and degrees:

CDEV 2210: Internship – required for the early childhood education transfer pathway and the early childhood education diploma;

DENT 1150: Dental Internship – required in the summer of the dental assisting diploma and AAS;

DEHY 1180, DEHY 1185, DEHY 2186, and DEHY 2188: Dental Hygiene Practice I, II, III, and IV, respectively. Required in each semester of the Dental Hygiene AAS;

DHET 1130: Diesel Internship – required in the third semester of the diesel equipment technician AAS;

GDES 2350: Internship, or GDES 2352: Shop Internship – required after the third semester of the Graphic Design AAS;

GDES 2350: Internship, or GDES 2352: Shop Internship – required in the third semester of the graphic design media technologies diploma;

HORT 1345: Internship – required in the fourth semester of the sustainable landscaping diploma, and, the second semester of the sustainable greenhouse production diploma;

HSER 2153: Field Experience and Seminar – required in the second semester of the human services technician diploma, and the fourth semester of the human services AAS and pre-social work transfer pathway;

MCAB 1113: Internship in Meat Cutting and Butchery – required for the meat cutting & butchery certificate;

NURS 2541 and NURS 2546: Professional Nursing Practicum II and III, respectively.  Required in semesters one and two of the Nursing (Advanced Standing) AS;

NURS 1545, NURS 2541, and NURS 2546: Professional Nursing Practium I, II, and III, respectively.  Required in semesters two, three, and four of the Nursing (Traditional) AS;

PNUR 1150: Clinical Lab – required in the third semester of the practical nursing diploma;

RAST 2390: Internship, or, RAST 2399: Independent Study – required in the fifth semester of the robotics / automated systems technology diploma and AAS;

Numerous programs also offer non-required internships and field experiences for students to gain skills and perspective on what the career is actually like in practice. 

Narrative 7: Early Postsecondary Credit Opportunities

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Early Postsecondary Credit Opportunities?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR.)

 

NEED A: Outreach and Engagement

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☐

3☒

4☐

5☐

There is a need to inform students and parents about early college credit opportunities.  The CLNA revealed:

·       45% of parents could not identify if their student’s school offers a CTSO, Work-Based Learning, job shadowing, or internship.

·       42% of parents know their student’s school offers Work-Based Learning.

·       50% of parents could not identify any part of their student’s classroom, labs or equipment.

·       Parents are not able to identify a pathway from high school to postsecondary.

·       Parents want to, and need to, learn more about the CTE courses offered in schools.

·       Parents are frustrated with required courses taking opportunities away from CTE courses.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Promotion and outreach via student school portals, conferences, and events.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Attending and coordinating meetings, emails, phone calls, providing flyers and videos, high school visits by college faculty, and college visits from high schools. Asking and persuading high schools to post early college credit information in their school portals, websites, and social media.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Professional Development for instructors to engage with parents and community partners.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Attending and coordinating meetings, emails, phone calls, providing resources like flyers and videos, high school visits by college faculty, and college visits from high schools.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Encourage Articulated College Credit agreements, PSEO, and College in the Schools, which parents tend to understand the financial value of. Increasing enrollment in these types of courses results in saving money when high school students continue their education.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Attending and coordinating meetings, conferences, classroom visits, emails, phone calls, providing flyers and videos, high school visits by college faculty to high schools, and high school students and classes visiting colleges.  Asking and persuading high schools to post early college credit information in their school portals, websites, and social media.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Work with CLC instructors and assisting them with promoting their programs.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Meetings, emails, phone calls, high school visits by college faculty, and college visits from high schools.

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Promote and encourage Articulated College Credit agreements throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

·       Assist high school instructors to articulate at least one class with CLC during the 2025-2026 academic year.

 

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. What opportunities are available and/or are being developed for CTE students to earn postsecondary credit while still in high school?

Central Lakes College (CLC) is committed to providing high quality educational experiences and access to learners still enrolled in high school.  High school students may earn college credit through Central Lakes College by choosing one or more of the following options:

  • College in the Schools, or CIS;
  • Articulation Agreements;
  • Post-Secondary Enrollment Options, or PSEO; and,
  • Credit for Prior Learning, or CPL.

CLC offers Articulated College Credits, which awards credit for prior learning to high school students who participate in certain Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. CLC instructors collaborate with participating high school instructors to identify course competencies that are common at both the high school and college levels. Articulated College Credit courses are taught by high school instructors.  CLC uses the CTE CreditMN website for this process.

As a consortium, we continue to evaluate the long-term value of Articulated College Credits with the changing environment of support for early college and the historical low utilization of the agreements compared to the amount of time, energy, and funding put into creating them.  In many areas, it is a struggle for high school CTE classes to truly replicate the time students spent working on a particular piece of equipment to be equivalent to the high amount of time spent at the college level.  This is due to both time and equipment constraints at the high school level.

The Central Lakes consortium school districts have a wide array of advanced-level classes.  The majority of consortium schools have Advanced Placement offerings.  Other industry-certified credential examples may include:

  • Aitkin High School: ServSafe certification and Minnesota Department of Health food manager certification
  • Brainerd High School: Aviation-Private Pilot Ground School class that prepares students to sit for the FAA Private Pilot written exam
  • Brainerd High School: National Career Readiness certification
  • Browerville High School: First Aid & CPR class that allows students to receive certification
  • Browerville High School: Certified Nursing Assistant class, and students are qualified to take the Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for certification
  • Crosby-Ironton High School: ServSafe certification
  • Henning High School: Online Certified Nursing Assistant class with M-State, resulting in students taking the Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for certification
  • Isle High School: Microsoft Office Specialist certification
  • Little Falls High School: Aviation-Private Pilot Ground School class that prepares students to sit for the FAA Private Pilot written exam
  • Little Falls High School: CDL licensure
  • Little Falls High School: OSHA 10
  • Little Falls High School: Snap-On certification
  • Long Prairie-Grey Eagle High School: ServSafe certification
  • Menahga High School: Following Minnesota Department of Health HCCC/Nursing Assistant curriculum. Upon completion of the course, students are qualified to take the Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for CNA certification
  • Menahga High School: Minnesota Emergency Medical Responder certification
  • Menahga High School: Snap-On certification
  • Pequot Lakes High School: Certified Nursing Assistant class, and students are qualified to take the Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for certification
  • Pequot Lakes High School: CDL licensure
  • Pierz Healy High School: Certified Nursing Assistant class, and students are qualified to take the Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for certification
  • Pierz Healy High School: OSHA 10
  • Pillager High School: National Career Readiness certification
  • Pillager High School: ServSafe Food Handler certification
  • Pillager High School: ProStart II-IV courses that allow the students to take the National Restaurant Association ProStart exam to earn a Certificate of Achievement
  • Sebeka High School: CLEP exam for Business Law class
  • Sebeka High School: Computer Applications course and students may take the coordinating CLEP exam for college credit
  • Staples-Motley High School: ServSafe certification
  • Staples-Motley High School: American Heart Association First Aid & CPR certification
  • Staples-Motley High School: Minnesota Board of Health Nursing Assistant Test for CNA certification
  • Wadena-Deer Creek High School: OSHA 10

Narrative 8: Support to Professionals

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

  1. Of the consortium’s prioritized needs from the CLNA Results and Priorities, which one(s) will be addressed in relation to Support to Professionals?
  2. What are the strategies to address these needs?
  3. What are the desired measurable outcomes for this strategy? (You will be reporting on these outcomes in the next APR)

 

NEED A: Equipment

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☐

3☒

4☐

5☐

There is a need to fund equipment and technology purchases within our consortium.  According to the CLNA:

·       CTE equipment and learning spaces need upgrading to industry-standard equipment and technology.

·       74% of high school students say that the equipment in their school is up to date.

·       70% of teachers believe their facilities and equipment reflect current industry and workplace practices, but most teachers believe they could use equipment that is upgraded to industry-standard.

·       High school teachers and administrators identified equipment as their first preference for where Perkins and CTE levy / revenue dollars should be spent.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Support the purchasing of industry-standard equipment, technology, and supplemental curriculum in our Programs of Study by June 30, 2026.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

·       Support Professional Development so instructors know how to use the equipment, or are inspired to explore new equipment and technology.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium

Action = Support attendance at relevant trainings and workshops, encourage industry partnerships, and use of Sourcewell’s STEMbound equipment.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026.

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant.

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Financially support the requested purchasing of industry-standard equipment, with approximately 35% of the total budget, throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

·       Financially support Professional Development, with approximately 7% of total budget, to ensure proper use of equipment throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

 

 

NEED B: Professional Development

  This Need is in Element(s):

1.     Prioritized Need Identified in the CLNA (copy text from CLNA Results & Priorities into field below):

1☐

2☐

3☒

4☐

5☐

There is a need to provide Professional Development within our consortium.  Data from the CLNA and Elements 1 & 2 shows:

Multiple exit and entry points were identified, along with:

Our consortium continues to struggle with expanding POS in Health Sciences. The lack of qualified and licensed instructors / teachers has made it difficult to expand into more schools. Currently, only 3 of our 22 high schools offer a Health Science course and that instructor is shared between two schools.

Information Technology and Computer Science is another area where many of our teachers are not trained in teaching. Minnesota is currently last in offering these courses to students at only 21%.

Teachers identify the inability to collaborate with other content teachers due to our consortium’s small school sizes and feel there are not enough opportunities for professional development opportunities for them to learn about new topics, course options, and learn best practices. High school teachers identified professional development as their second priority for where Perkins and CTE levy / revenue dollars are spent. Administrators report they want to expand CTE offerings but struggle with retaining CTE staff, hiring qualified CTE staff, and providing the necessary equipment to expand. We feel that the lack of professional development hinders the ability to learn about new opportunities for students.

2.     Strategies to address need:

·       Invest in equipment and technology to provide positive classroom experiences which may encourage teacher retainment.

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium 

Action = Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026. 

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Offer and promote Professional development opportunities

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium 

Action = Funding and promoting and Professional Development with approximately 7% of total budget

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026. 

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant & Sourcewell

 

·       Explore potential of content meetings and networking

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium 

Action = Planning and determining the concept for content meetings

Timeframe = By May 30, 2026. 

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

·       Use of consortium resources in Google drive

Who = Central Lakes Perkins Consortium 

Action = Continued updating of resources, PD opportunities, etc.

Timeframe = By June 30, 2026. 

Funding source = Federal Perkins Grant

3.     Measurable Outcomes (report results in next APR):

·       Participation in at least one event, professional development workshop, and the like, from each high school instructor in development opportunities throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

·       Continued use and sharing of consortium resources in Google drive throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

 

  1. Provide additional narrative to address the following:
  2. Describe the specific actions your consortium will take to support the recruitment and preparation of education professionals, including individuals from groups underrepresented in the teaching profession.
  3. Describe the specific actions your consortium will take to retain, train, and develop education professionals and ensure applicable certification, credential, and licensure requirements are met.

4a and b.  The Central Lakes Consortium has included teaching/training as one of our programs of study to be funded.  Education careers are one of the most in-demand in our region, according to DEED Labor Market Information.  In addition to spending funds and supporting this as a program of study, we are working with the Lakes Country Education Co-Op to provide support to teachers to obtain licenses and endorsements.  The Lakes Country Education Co-Op provides information to assist our instructors on the various paths available. Example resources are available as well all at no cost to the consortium.  Secondary supplemental funding requests are budgeted in professional development to enable instructors to request a substitute teacher for time away from classrooms to work on licensure, program approval, and attend professional development opportunities. At the postsecondary level, we created a new short-term certificate in early childhood education to provide a pathway for new individuals to enter the field quickly with accelerated training.  This certificate will also stack into further education career training if individuals would like to continue their training.  We also work closely with Sourcewell and their “Live here, Teach Here” Campaign to recruit teachers into the region.

Secondary: Our consortium coordinator works closely with districts who have instructors teaching out of field to remind them of the need to update these as required. OFP have seen a steady increase in our consortium which can be a great way to keep our CTE courses alive. We will collaborate with Lakes Country Service Coop to assist our instructors with viable ways to licensure. Funds to support these are in Narrative 8 and in reserve funds under development of new programs of study.

The consortium continues to support professional development to ensure we have licensed teachers.  We will partner with the Lakes Country Education Coop to provide support and funding to teachers to complete their licensure through the portfolio process.  More information can be found at: https://www.lcsc.org/site/Default.aspx?PageID=831.

Narrative 9: Performance Gaps

Use the table below to answer questions 1 – 3. Use one table for each CLNA prioritized need. Copy and paste additional tables if more than two priorities will be addressed.

NEED A: Math and Reading Scores

This Need is in Element(s): 1 (selected)

Context / Data notes

There is a need to ensure that CTE students are proficient in reading and math. The EDIAM report showed:

  • 2S1: Academic Proficiency: Reading / Language Arts – Consortium Level- 45.19% / State- 38.92%
  • 11 consortium schools exceed the state average.
  • Ethnicity other than white in our consortium is quite low. Ethnicity does not have large difference between consortium and state.
  • Special populations for economically disadvantaged and nontraditional have similar scores between consortium and state.
  • 2S2: Academic Proficiency: Mathematics – Consortium Level- 24.3% / State- 33.05%
  • 4 consortium schools exceed the state average.
  • Ethnicity other than white in our consortium is quite low. Ethnicity does not have large difference between consortium and state.

Strategies to address need

Strategy 1: Purchase industry-standard equipment to engage students
Who
Central Lakes Perkins Consortium
Action
Fund equipment with approximately 35% of total budget
Timeframe
By June 30, 2026.
Funding source
Federal Perkins Grant
Strategy 2: Professional development for math and reading integration
Who
Central Lakes Perkins Consortium
Action
Promotion and encouragement of PD
Timeframe
By June 30, 2026.
Funding source
Federal Perkins Grant
Strategy 3: Use online resources for math/reading integration
Who
Central Lakes Perkins Consortium
Action
Promotion and encouragement of various resources, working with MDE specialists to learn of available resources
Timeframe
By May 30, 2026.
Funding source
Federal Perkins Grant

Perkins-Funded Positions

Submit the following with your application materials:

  • Completed FY 26 Perkins Funded Positions spreadsheet
  • Position descriptions for every position fully, or partially, funded by Perkins for FY 26

Required Documentation

These required documents must be submitted with your Perkins V Local Application:

  • FY 26 Statements of Assurance (combined and uploaded as one single PDF)
  • CLNA results & priorities document
  • FY 26 S-RPOS - Funding POS spreadsheet
  • FY 26 Combined Secondary & Postsecondary Budget spreadsheet
  • Consortium Consolidated Equipment Inventory – current as of April 2025

Improvement Plan: Only required for those consortia on an improvement plan — Not required for the Central Lakes Perkins Consortium.

Version: 2-5-2024 — Page 2 of 2

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