MN SF1543

$500,000 appropriated in fiscal year 2026 from the workforce development fund to the Department of Labor and Industry for a grant to Independent School District No. 294 (Houston) for Minnesota Virtual Academy's career pathways program with Operating Engineers Local 49

Program may include up to five semesters of courses leading to eligibility for the Operating Engineers Local 49 apprenticeship program

Grant funds may support academic services, counseling, and other support services provided by students' enrolling school districts

Program must conduct outreach to students of color, Indigenous students, low-income students, students throughout Minnesota, and underserved students

Annual report required by January 15 documenting program spending, participant numbers and demographics, students entering apprenticeships, and recommendations to improve career pathways programs statewide