CTE Categorical Funds & Perkins V (RI)
Eligibility
All 36 Rhode Island LEAs with approved CTE programs. Technology, computer science, engineering, and healthcare technology pathways are well aligned. Schools must have an approved CTE program through RIDE.
Program Goals
Perkins V and RI CTE categorical funds support equipment, curriculum, and professional development for approved CTE pathways. CS, engineering technology, and digital skills pathways can use these funds to purchase classroom tools, update equipment, and train teachers.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Districts access these funds through RIDE's CTE division. No separate competitive application is required for formula allocations. Contact RIDE CTE at ride.ri.gov for the annual allocation process and approved pathway list.
Cycle Notes
Annual formula cycle. Funds are allocated each school year. Districts plan their spending through the RIDE CTE process.
Grant Award Amount
Formula-based allocation — varies by district size, CTE program enrollment, and approved pathways. Check RIDE CTE for current allocation information.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit — a handheld game-style controller for interactive games and physical computing
- Smart Solar Energy Kit — build and program a working solar panel to measure real-time power generation and explore renewable energy
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every RI district get Perkins V funds?
Districts with approved CTE programs receive Perkins V formula allocations. Check with RIDE CTE to confirm your district's eligibility.
What can Perkins V funds buy?
Equipment, curriculum materials, and teacher professional development for approved CTE pathways — including CS, engineering, and technology programs.
Can Perkins V pay for Forward Education kits?
Yes — if your school has an approved CTE pathway that aligns to the kits. CS, engineering technology, and related pathways are the most common match.
How does a district access these funds?
Through RIDE's annual CTE allocation process. Contact your district's federal programs coordinator and the RIDE CTE office.
How can Forward Education help?
We provide curriculum alignment documents connecting our products to RI CTE pathway standards.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Rhode Island standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
