Despite a $10 million state budget cut, Idaho’s Launch program is expected to have enough money to cover this year’s postsecondary grants. The program, which provides up to $8,000 in grants to high school graduates, has seen an increase in applications, with over 10,000 students applying this year.

Program Details

The Launch program is designed to help students prepare for in-demand careers that don’t necessarily require a four-year degree. The program has been in operation for three years and has provided grants to over 16,000 high school graduates. However, the program’s effectiveness in helping students land good-paying jobs is still unknown, as many students are still in the process of completing their education or training.

The Workforce Development Council, which oversees the Launch program, is working to collect data on student outcomes. The council is starting by looking at the 200 or so first-year Launch recipients who enrolled in short-term career training programs. The results of this data collection effort could shape future legislative debates over Launch funding.

Budget and Funding

The $10 million budget cut to the Launch program was part of a larger effort to reduce state spending. The cut was supported by Governor Brad Little, who ultimately signed it into law. However, the cut is not expected to be permanent, and the Workforce Development Council is already planning to request $75 million in funding for the next budget cycle.

Original reporting: Idaho Education News — read the source article.