Education and city leaders announced Wednesday that the San Diego County Office of Education received a $13 million state grant to help students pursue high-paying tech jobs.
The money from the state Department of Education will lead to a regional approach that prepares students for employment in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and information and communications technology.
The program will involve 15 school districts encompassing 116 high schools, five community college districts comprised of eight campuses and participants in three industry sectors.
"This program is the latest step in our efforts to better connect high schools, community colleges, and partners like the United Way in helping kids obtain high-skills, high-wage careers," said county Superintendent of Schools Randolph Ward.
"If students train for the careers they want in high school and in college, they will seamlessly transition into that career," he said. "It is a win-win for students and businesses."
The funds will also support the professional development of teachers and counselors, curriculum development and alignment, and industry engagement.
The San Diego Unified School District will receive a $2.3 million share.
"San Diego Unified's mission is to ensure that all students graduate with the skills, motivation, curiosity and resilience to succeed in their choice of college and career," SDUSD Superintendent Cindy Marten said.
"We know this cannot be accomplished working in isolation but by working in collaboration with other school districts, post-secondary education, elected officials, community agencies and the business community," she said.
A spokeswoman for the United Way said the nonprofit will help coordinate the work by the various partners.
