Berkshire Schools Awarded Funds to Expand Career Pathways
BOSTON — As part of Massachusetts STEM Week, Governor Healey announced more than $5 million in grants to expand and strengthen Innovation Career Pathways programs that provide high school students with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to explore careers in high-demand STEM fields and other growing industries.
The investment includes $436,000 in planning grants to 30 school districts to support the development of 15 potential new pathways, including at 11 high schools new to the program. Of the $5.1 million in funding, more than $4.7 million will support implementation and continuation grants to help schools sustain and strengthen existing Innovation Career Pathways programs this school year.
"Every student in Massachusetts deserves a high school experience that prepares them for success, whether they choose college, a career or another path," said Governor Maura Healey. "That's why we're investing in programs that give students the chance to explore their interests, learn new skills and get real-world experience before they graduate. We want more young people to discover the incredible opportunities available right here in Massachusetts and have the tools they need to build a great future."
In Berkshire County:
- Wahconah Regional High School was awarded a $15,000 Planning Grant.
- Hoosac Valley Regional High School was awarded a $50,000 implementation and continuation grant.
- Drury High School was awarded a $50,000 implementation and continuation grant.
This school year, more than 8,500 students are enrolled in 303 Innovation Career Pathways at 130 high schools, representing nearly 36 percent of eligible high schools across Massachusetts. Through these programs, students explore careers, take advanced coursework and gain real-world experience through internships and work-based learning. With the new planning grants, schools have the opportunity to develop 15 additional pathways at 11 new high schools, potentially bringing the statewide total to 318 pathways at 141 high schools and serving nearly 9,000 students in the 2027–2028 school year, contingent on receiving Innovation Career Pathways designation and subsequent implementation funding.
Education Undersecretary Secretary Mark Reilly announced the grants at Norwood High School, which is receiving a $50,000 continuation grant to support its Innovation Career Pathways programs. During the visit, officials toured the school's health care, clean energy and business pathways, including an ambulance simulator and medical training programs, electric vehicle trainers, and a new school store where students can gain hands-on business experience.
The planning grants will help schools develop curriculum, establish partnerships with employers and higher education institutions, and design work-based learning experiences as they prepare to apply for Innovation Career Pathways designation in spring 2027. The implementation and continuation funding includes $3,883,046 awarded in the first round and $824,629 in the second round. Schools can use these grants for professional development, instructional materials, college and career advising, industry-recognized credentials, dual enrollment opportunities and other resources needed to deliver their designated pathways this school year.
Innovation Career Pathways provide students with a structured sequence of courses and experiences connected to high-demand industries in the Massachusetts economy, including health care, life sciences, information technology, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and business and finance. Schools work with local MassHire Workforce Boards to align programs with regional workforce needs and connect students with career opportunities.
