BOISE, ID – Idaho schools now have the opportunity to apply for Career Ready Students (ICRS) grants to support career technical education (CTE) programs for the 2025–2026 school year.

The ICRS council has opened applications for microgrants of up to $50,000, aimed at helping districts and charter schools expand or launch CTE initiatives. The program, established to reduce reliance on federal funding, has already awarded 72 grants totaling $62.9 million, with half of that amount distributed to districts across the state.

The grants are intended to strengthen programs that align with Idaho’s workforce needs, from welding, agriculture, and machining to nursing and cybersecurity. For rural schools, funding can support programs that serve local community priorities and industry partnerships. Urban schools are encouraged to demonstrate how funding will expand student access to high-quality CTE opportunities.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield praised the program’s impact, saying it connects students to learning that sparks their interests while preparing them for life beyond the classroom. “These grants open doors for them,” Critchfield said.

Preference will be given to districts and charters that have not previously received ICRS funding, though schools with past awards of $50,000 or less may also apply. Applications are open through October 17 at 6 p.m. (MST). More information, including eligibility guidelines and application materials, is available on the Idaho Department of Education’s website at sde.idaho.gov .