There are decades where things remain constant, and weeks where decades of technological innovation are released. While elearning, immersive learning, simulation training, and virtual reality training are not new, they are to many in the HVACR classroom.  It is likely that this last year has brought more change to HVACR education, and our delivery methods than any previous one.

While the ESCO Institute strives to keep our digital learning products affordable for instructors and the students they serve, we want to make certain you are aware of some potential options to procure funds for these resources through federal funding.  

Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act
Perkins provides funding for programs that address problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, and technical skills.

21st Century Community Learning
This program provides funding for students who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools.

Every Student Succeeds Act
ESEA provides grants to districts serving low-income students for textbooks, or to effect positive change in our lowest-performing schools.

Investing in Innovation Fund
This program provides grants applicants with a record of improving student achievement and attainment to expand the implementation of innovative practices.

Title I: Elementary and Secondary Education Act
This program provides financial assistance to local educational agencies and schools with high numbers or high percentages of children from low-income families to help ensure that all children meet challenging state academic standards.

Title II: Preparing, Training, and Recruiting High Quality Teachers and Principals
This program provides grants to improve the quality and effectiveness of teachers, principals, and other school leaders.

These are just a few of the most prominent Federal programs. It is suggested that instructors work with the school administration, grant coordinators, to learn about other programs they are aware of. This may include some temporary funding measure through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, or through your local state government.

Although the financial requirements to properly run a successful HVACR program continue to increase, funding in many cases has moved in the other direction. As such, it is important for instructors to explore all federal, state, and local funding opportunities. Hopefully, these resources will help bridge the financial gap that exist for so many.

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