ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Aberdeen Public School District has been awarded a $30,233 grant from the South Dakota Department of Education to purchase new precision machine equipment for the manufacturing program at ATEC Academy.
Aberdeen is one of nine school districts across the state selected as a 2026 recipient of the South Dakota Perkins Reserve Grant. Each district will use the funds to provide major equipment upgrades for Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, according to a news release from the Department of Education.
“CTE programs are constantly evolving to match the pace of workforce needs,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves, in the news release. “The South Dakota Perkins Reserve Grant aids schools in equipping students with current technologies, resources, and tools, offering students a realistic, hands-on learning experience that will strengthen their marketability to colleges or employers once they leave the K-12 education system.”
At ATEC, the grant will enhance the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering career cluster by supporting the purchase of a modern metal lathe and professional development for the machine tool instructor. The project expands hands-on learning in machining operations, precision measurement, safety and problem-solving. These investments will strengthen program rigor, increase student access to modern equipment, and better prepare learners for postsecondary education and careers in advanced manufacturing.
The other school districts receiving the South Dakota Perkins Reserve Grant are De Smet, Lake Preston, McLaughlin, Menno, Mitchell, Timber Lake, Wakpala and Wolsey-Wessington. To learn more, visit doe.sd.gov/cte/perkins.aspx.
About the Aberdeen Public School District
The Aberdeen Public School District provides a comprehensive educational program to approximately 4,200 students in grades K-12, with a mission of empowering all students to succeed in a changing world. Our students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to reach their potential in a global community through high expectations of academic achievement; diverse educational opportunities; and community involvement in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more at aberdeen.k12.sd.us.