Rep. Troy Announces More Than $2.2M in Funding for Mentor Exempted Village

COLUMBUS - State Rep. Daniel P. Troy (D-Willowick) this week announced that $2,223,843.68 has been awarded from the Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program to the Mentor Public School District.

“I am proud to announce the allocation of over $2.2 million from the Career Technical Education Equipment Grant Program to Mentor Exempted Village. This funding underscores the State of Ohio’s commitment to empowering students with the tools they need to lead the way in technical careers,” said Rep. Troy. “We are investing in our future workforce and ensuring students have opportunities in the subjects that interest them.”

Mentor Schools plans to use the grant funding for new programming at Mentor High School, called Career Academies, beginning next school year.

Craig Heath, Superintendent of Mentor Schools shared, "Our Mentor Schools Career Academy initiative marks a significant leap forward in preparing students for the dynamic demands of the modern workforce. With the support of this grant, we're excited to offer programs that not only delve into diverse careers but also provide industry-recognized credentials."

Dr. Joe Glavan, Director of Workforce Development for Mentor Schools and Lakeland Community College added, "The leadership of Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Husted, the strong support of legislators like Representative Troy, and collaborative efforts among businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies, have been pivotal in our journey towards bridging the skills gap. Through initiatives like Mentor Career Academies, fueled by this $2.2 Million dollar grant, we're nurturing the talent Ohio needs to thrive in the 21st century while also empowering students to thrive in their chosen paths”.

The grant program helps schools establish or expand Career Technical Education Programs. Programs are given priority if they are training students for in-demand jobs on the Ohio’s Top Jobs List and the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation Innovative Workforce Incentive Program list.

Funding for the program was included in the most recent state operating budget that was passed last year. Rep. Troy is a member of the Ohio House Finance and Appropriations Committee, and strongly advocated for the inclusion of funding to support this grant program in the budget bill.

Later this spring, a second round of Career Technical Education Equipment Grants will open. Prospective applicants can learn more here: