Kenosha board approves grants for youth apprenticeships, Head Start operations and services for families in transition

The Kenosha Unified School District voted March 24 to grant administration approval to submit several workforce and federal grant applications aimed at career preparation, early childhood services and supports for families in transition.

For career and technical education, the board approved applying for a Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship grant for 2026–28 with a $143,000 request and a 50% local match. The presenter described the program as work‑based and open to juniors and seniors, aligned to courses with community work experience. "This is a grant of a $143,000, and we match 50% of those funds," said the presenter introducing Erin Williams, the district's career and technical education coordinator; the administration stated an estimated 130 students were targeted at about $1,100 per student.

The board also approved applying for a federal Head Start grant totaling $2,681,087 to support operations for the 2026–27 school year, serving roughly 330 income‑eligible 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds; presenters noted enrollment at 96% capacity across 17 classrooms and improvements in medical/dental compliance. The Head Start Policy Council had reviewed the application.

Finally, administration requested and the board approved submission of the Education for Homeless Children and Youth Innovation Grant for three years at $75,000 per year to fund social work services and supports (attendance, credit attainment, transportation and other services). Administration said program staff are transitioning language to refer to "families in transition" and that the McKinney‑Vento Act governs eligibility and services.

All three grant requests were approved by voice votes; details of budgets and match requirements were discussed during presentations.