Description
The State of Maine Department of Education is seeking qualified applicants to deliver a one‑year pilot program that expands healthcare career exploration for rural high‑school students (grades 9‑12). The award will fund the design and implementation of immersive health‑industry experiences, micro‑credentialing, skill‑training workshops, mentorship, and wrap‑around services such as transportation and career counseling. Applicants must be a public school, charter school, SAU, or a community‑based organization with a proven track record of preparing students for post‑secondary credit, credentials, enrollment, or employment, and must submit partnership agreements and a Letter of Intent. The contract runs from mid‑September 2026 through the end of August 2027, with quarterly reporting and invoicing requirements.
• Target audience: Rural Maine high‑school students (grades 9‑12).
• Funding: Up to $125,000 per award; total pool $500,000 for up to four awards.
• Required deliverables: Health‑industry immersion activities, micro‑credential courses, skill‑training workshops, mentorship, transportation support, and quarterly progress reports.
• Eligibility: Public schools, charter schools, SAUs, or CBOs with a track record; CBOs must have Executive Director sign the application.
• Mandatory documentation: Partnership agreements, Letters of Support (including from entities such as FAME), and a Memorandum of Understanding prior to contract award.