Larned High School is excited to announce that they have been awarded a $27,000 CTE grant from the Patterson Family Fund this Fall. The Patterson Family Foundation, dedicated to extending the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson, is committed to uplifting rural communities through various means including healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and more. This particular CTE grant was made available to schools within the foundation's service area, which encompasses Pawnee County.
Adam Hewson, with assistance from Tiffany Burris at the District Office, completed the grant application. Mr. Hewson emphasized the significance of this grant for his program, noting that it has allowed them to acquire the necessary equipment to meet their goals in one fell swoop. The grant application prioritized securing equipment essential for certifying students in NCCER Core and Carpentry. This marks the second year that these certification classes have been offered, as well as the second year of collaboration with Barton Community College, enabling students to earn dual college credit for these courses.
A crucial aspect of the certification process involves hands-on skills. The increased equipment obtained through this grant substantially reduces student wait times, recognizing that proficiency in a skill is not acquired while waiting in line. Another noteworthy aspect of the grant is the provision of consumables. In woodworking classes, students have been charged for their lumber, often in the form of a shop fee ranging from $60 to $80. The lumber provided by this grant will eliminate this fee, and additionally includes materials for construction projects. It is hoped that the proceeds from these projects can be used to offset or completely eliminate shop fees once the grant-supplied lumber is depleted.
When asked about his highest point of excitement, Mr. Hewson expressed particular enthusiasm for the new table saw. This addition has been on their wish list since his arrival. While the existing saw is serviceable, it is not appropriately sized for their shop, and lacks dust collection capabilities. Running the saw without proper dust collection creates a mess in the shop, not to mention potential health hazards associated with the dust. This new addition promises to significantly enhance the shop's cleanliness and safety by effectively containing the dust.