OCTAE Connection Flash Edition

September 28, 2020

U.S. Department of Education Launches National Challenge to Advance Pre-apprenticeships and Expand Career Opportunities

In recognition of National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, the U.S. Department of Education is proud to launch the Rethink Adult Ed Challenge, a $750,000 competition to advance pre-apprenticeships. The Department invites adult education providers to design programs that better prepare learners for apprenticeships and beyond.

The Rethink Adult Ed Challenge is helping Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA)-funded adult education providers create innovative and high-quality pre-apprenticeship programs — in any industry, anywhere in the United States.

“Too many adult learners are missing out on opportunities for well-paid and rewarding careers, whether due to skills gaps, family responsibilities, financial situations, or a lack of awareness about apprenticeships in general,” said Assistant Secretary for Career, Technical, and Adult Education Scott Stump. “We’re addressing these hurdles by advancing innovative pre-apprenticeship programs that will benefit everyone — including adult learners, employers, and the communities around them.”

Submit a preliminary design to enter the challenge

AEFLA-funded community colleges, correctional facilities, libraries, community-based organizations, and other adult education providers interested in entering the challenge should submit a preliminary program design by 11:59 p.m. ET on Nov. 25, 2020. To learn more about the Rethink Adult Ed Challenge, join the Oct. 15 virtual information session.

Access virtual resources and expert support

A review panel will select up to 100 finalists to join Stage 2, which runs from February to July 2021. Finalists will have access to a range of digital resources — such as case studies, activities, and webinars with subject matter experts — to help them refine their designs and develop more detailed program proposals. The grand-prize winner will be awarded $250,000, and up to five runners-up will each receive at least $100,000.

Learn more about the Rethink Adult Ed Challenge. To receive updates, subscribe to the challenge newsletter and follow Ed Prizes on Twitter.

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