Wisconsin · Federal Formula

Perkins V: Strengthening Career and Technical Education Act

Eligibility

Wisconsin public school districts and postsecondary institutions with approved CTE programs. Formula funds flow through WI DPI to eligible secondary recipients and through Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) to postsecondary recipients.

Program Goals

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) supports high-quality CTE programs that prepare students for in-demand careers. Wisconsin uses Perkins V funds to modernize CTE equipment, develop new programs in technology and manufacturing, support work-based learning, and improve alignment between high school CTE and postsecondary pathways.

Learn more at https://www2.ed.gov/policy/sectech/leg/perkins/index.html

Application

Secondary districts receive formula allocations through WI DPI and submit local applications (local plans) describing program improvement activities. No competitive application for formula funds. Contact your district CTE director or DPI CTE team at dpi.wi.gov/cte/perkins.

Cycle Notes

Annual federal allocation. Wisconsin DPI finalizes local allocations typically in spring or early summer. Funds must be obligated by September 30 of the applicable year.

Award Amount

Formula-based. Wisconsin receives approximately $20–25M annually in Perkins V secondary funds distributed to eligible districts. Individual allocations vary significantly by district size.

Allowable Purchases

Forward Education products that qualify for this grant:

• Coding for Good Kit — Supports CS and IT CTE pathway development — a direct Perkins V allowable use for technology program improvement.
• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Energy and manufacturing CTE pathway equipment — clearly aligned with Perkins V's focus on high-demand industry sector programs.
• Forward Education Learning Platform — CTE program quality improvement through teacher PD and curriculum — allowable under Perkins V's professional development and curriculum improvement provisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the same as the Wisconsin-specific Perkins CTE article?
This article covers the federal Perkins V Act context. A separate article covers Wisconsin's specific Perkins V implementation through DPI. Both refer to the same funding stream.

What makes a Perkins V expenditure allowable?
Purchases must directly support approved CTE programs and align with the district's local plan goals for program improvement, student achievement, and career readiness.

Can Perkins V fund curriculum development in addition to equipment?
Yes. Curriculum development, professional development, and program improvement activities are all allowable alongside equipment purchases.

How does Wisconsin's Perkins V plan affect local district spending?
Wisconsin's state plan establishes statewide priorities. Districts must align their local plans with state priorities but have flexibility in specific program improvement strategies.

Where can I find Wisconsin-specific Perkins V guidance?
WI DPI's CTE team at dpi.wi.gov/cte/perkins provides Wisconsin-specific guidance, local allocation data, and allowable use information.