CTE digital career exploration programs; virtual reality simulation programs.

Sec. 61w. (1) From the state school aid fund money appropriated in section 11, there is allocated for 2026-2027 only an amount not to exceed $2,900,000.00 for competitive grants to districts and intermediate districts to support digital career exploration programs and virtual reality simulation programs that enhance and expand existing career and technical education programs. (2) Districts and intermediate districts shall apply for funds under this section on a competitive basis in a form and manner determined by the department. (3) A virtual reality simulation program described in this section must offer software, hardware, or both that provides immersive career exploration and workforce development programming for students. (4) Fifty percent of the funds allocated under this section must be awarded to districts and intermediate districts to purchase software, hardware, or related technology platforms. The remaining 50% of the funds must be awarded to districts and intermediate districts to partner with businesses or nonprofit organizations that provide mobile virtual reality career exploration services, including providers capable of delivering software and hardware with immersive career experiences directly to schools. (5) Awards received under this section must be used to support career and technical education programs aligned with high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand occupations across career clusters aligned with local and market needs. A recipient may use an award under this section to support virtual reality simulation programs that reach multiple career clusters or career exploration opportunities. (6) Notwithstanding section 17b, the department shall make payments under this section on a schedule determined by the department.