The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act, most recently reauthorized as Perkins V in 2018, continues the federal government’s 100-year commitment to supporting high-quality CTE across the US. With new updates to funding rules and program implementation guidance, schools, districts, and state agencies will need to align with several significant shifts.
This blog breaks down the key updates and what they mean for CTE programs going forward.
Increased and Stabilized Federal Funding
For Fiscal Year 2025, the U.S. Department of Education has proposed a modest increase in Title I formula funding for CTE programs. More importantly, this elevated funding level is expected to be sustained through at least FY 2030, giving states and districts more predictability in long-term planning.
What this means:
- More consistent support for equipment upgrades, curriculum development, and teacher training.
- An opportunity to expand access to CTE pathways in emerging fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
- Local education agencies (LEAs) can make multiyear commitments to new programs without relying on one-time grants.
State Plan Revisions and Performance Accountability
The new proposed guidance requires states to submit revised Perkins V plans by 2026, including updates to:
- Core performance indicators
- Definitions of work-based learning and recognized postsecondary credentials
- Reporting frameworks that improve comparability across states
States will also need to adjust how they collect and report data on student outcomes such as credential attainment, program completion, and job placement.
What this means:
- Local programs must stay closely aligned with updated state goals and performance definitions.
- Data systems may need to be upgraded or adapted to meet more rigorous reporting expectations.
- There will be an increased emphasis on measurable outcomes to assess program effectiveness.
Closer Alignment with Workforce Programs
A new interagency agreement between the Department of Education and the Department of Labor aims to streamline collaboration between CTE programs and workforce development systems governed under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). This includes:
- Shared data and accountability structures
- Joint technical assistance and oversight
- More integrated planning across education and workforce agencies
What this means:
- Programs that integrate academic, technical, and employability skills may be better positioned for support.
- CTE programs will likely play a more visible role in state workforce strategies.
- There may be a stronger focus on connecting students directly with career pathways through internships, apprenticeships, and employer partnerships.
Postsecondary Concerns on the Horizon
While secondary CTE programs are seeing continued support, the FY 2026 proposed budget from the U.S. Department of Education initially suggested eliminating federal Perkins funding for postsecondary institutions. Although this proposal was met with strong opposition and remains under review, it signals a growing debate about how CTE is supported at the community college level.
What this means:
- Postsecondary programs should monitor legislative developments and be prepared to advocate for continued funding.
- Some states may shift more resources to dual-enrollment or early college models if postsecondary funding becomes less stable.
- Partnerships between high schools and colleges may need to adjust depending on how future allocations are structured.
Looking Ahead
The new Perkins funding rules reinforce a national push for high-quality CTE that:
- Builds clear bridges between secondary and postsecondary education
- Aligns learning with labor market demand
- Holds programs accountable for learner outcomes
For educators, administrators, and state leaders, now is the time to:
- Review current CTE implementation strategies
- Ensure alignment with updated state plans
- Prepare to meet evolving data and accountability expectations
- Engage stakeholders, including employers and workforce boards, to strengthen career pathways
As these changes take effect, Perkins V remains a critical mechanism for preparing students for meaningful, well-paying careers across every region and industry sector.
