District awarded Patterson Foundation grant for CTE equipment; laser welders and cutters approved in concept

District staff told the board the Patterson Foundation approved a grant application to fund equipment for the district's Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, including two laser welders and two laser cutters.

The district representative said the application targeted rural funding from the Patterson Foundation, which focuses on economic opportunity, education and community engagement in counties with smaller populations. The approved equipment aligns with recently expanded advanced welding and metal fabrication coursework.

"We were approved for two laser welders and two laser cutters," the presenter said, noting the equipment will integrate with existing shop space and that no additional electrical work is expected. Staff said they were still awaiting the grant check and had not yet ordered equipment but expected installation to proceed quickly once funds arrived.

The board was invited to tour the shops when the equipment is installed. No additional district contribution or budget amendment was reported at the meeting; staff said the grant covers the proposed equipment costs.