The U.S. Department of Education announced five finalist teams on December 17. These teams will continue on to Phase 2, where they will plan, run, refine, and report on their programs.
A $600,000 U.S. Department of Education challenge to advance technology education in rural high schools.
About the challenge
The Rural Tech Project invited high schools and local educational agencies to propose technology education programs that use competency-based distance learning.
By advancing technology skills development, rural communities can help their students prepare for rewarding career opportunities. This open innovation challenge will empower educators with resources to create technology education programs that are customized for their students and local needs.
Announcing the five finalists
iLEAD Academy
Carrollton, Kentucky
The team is offering students across five high schools the opportunity to take virtual, dual-credit courses leading to the completion of computer science degrees.
Louisa County Public Schools
Mineral, Virginia
The team is providing a cybersecurity program that will prepare students to enter the workforce with industry credentials or attend a postsecondary program.
Premont Independent School District
Premont, Texas; in collaboration with Brooks County and Freer Independent School Districts
The team is offering students the option to join one of five academies leading to dual credits, associate degrees, and industry-based certifications.
Ravenna High School
Ravenna, Michigan
The team is creating an agricultural technology program that will teach students transferable skills for robotics, healthcare, and computer informatics.
Woodlake High School
Woodlake, California
The team is introducing an online aviation program that will prepare students for regional careers or post-secondary degrees.
Timeline
The challenge will be conducted in two phases. During Phase 1, all eligible organizations were invited to submit a program proposal for competency-based technology education using distance learning. Judges recommended up to five finalists to progress to Phase 2, a two-year community implementation period. At the end of Phase 2, a judging panel will recommend one grand-prize winner.
Phase 1: Open submissions
June 30 - October 8, 2020
Finalists announced
December 17, 2020
We are here
Phase 2: Community implementation
January 2021 - August 2023
Winner announced
Fall 2023
Awards
Total prize pool
$600,000
Five finalists received an equal share of the $500,000 Phase 1 cash prize purse and progress to Phase 2. In Phase 2, finalists will receive personalized support to plan, run, refine, and report on their programs. At the end of Phase 2, one grand-prize winner will receive a $100,000 cash prize.