The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) has announced the recipients of its Catalyst Center grants, awarding funding to support innovative programs that strengthen career pathways and expand opportunities for students across the state. The grants are designed to foster collaboration between K–12 education, postsecondary institutions, and industry partners while helping schools align learning experiences with workforce needs.
USBE received 35 applications requesting more than $200 million in funding, reflecting strong statewide interest in developing high-quality, career-focused programs. Each application was evaluated by three independent readers, and a review committee representing postsecondary education, industry, and USBE personnel collectively dedicated more than 200 hours to the process.
Grant recipients represent every region of Utah and include rural and urban communities, charter schools, and traditional school districts. Funded programs span a wide range of high-demand industries, including health sciences, information technology, construction and architecture, aviation, machining and fabrication, graphic design, hospitality, business and entrepreneurship, agriculture, digital and integrated media, and wildland firefighting
“These grants reflect a shared commitment to preparing students for success in their careers,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Molly Hart. “By supporting locally developed programs connected to real workforce needs, the Catalyst Center initiative helps ensure students graduate with relevant skills and meaningful opportunities.”
The following LEAs were awarded Catalyst Center grants:
- Beehive Science and Technology Academy
- Freedom Prep Academy
- Grand County School District
- Morgan School District
- NUAMES
- Providence Hall
- Summit Academy
- Terra Academy
- Uintah School District
- Utah Connections Academy
- Walden School
- Juab School District
- South Sanpete School District
- Garfield School District
- Duchesne County School District
- Park City School District
- Wasatch School District
- San Juan School District
- Provo City School District
- Iron County School District
- Pinnacle Canyon Academy
- Kane County School District
- Granite School District
- Murray School District
- Cache County School District
- Canyons School District
- Davis School District
- Weber School District
