Perkins V Overview for CTE Leaders

Perkins V Overview for CTE Leaders

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act — Perkins V — is the primary federal law funding career and technical education. Signed in 2018, it provides nearly $1.4 billion annually to support CTE programs across all 50 states.

Important note: This course provides general educational information about Perkins V requirements. It is not legal or compliance advice. Always refer to your state's specific Perkins guidelines and consult with your state CTE agency for requirements applicable to your state and institution.

What Perkins V Funds

Perkins V provides formula-based grants to states, which distribute funds to local recipients: secondary school districts and postsecondary institutions. Funds may support:

• Development, improvement, or expansion of CTE programs of study
• Professional development for CTE educators
• Career guidance and academic counseling
• Work-based learning programs
• Equipment and technology for CTE instruction

Key Changes from Perkins IV

1. Programs of Study emphasis Perkins V requires that funded programs be part of coherent Programs of Study connecting secondary education, postsecondary education, and careers.

2. Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) A new requirement that local recipients conduct a rigorous, data-driven needs assessment at least every two years, informing how Perkins funds are used.

3. Program Quality Indicators (5S) New secondary performance indicators focused on program quality outcomes: industry credentials, postsecondary credits, and work-based learning attainment.

4. Special Populations Focus Strengthened requirements to identify and close performance gaps for special populations: students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students, English learners, foster youth, and students in nontraditional occupations.

5. State Determined Performance Levels States set their own performance level targets in consultation with stakeholders, rather than negotiating directly with the federal government.

What This Means for Local CTE Leaders

Perkins V creates more local flexibility than previous iterations — but that flexibility comes with more local accountability. Understanding these requirements is not just a compliance exercise. It is the foundation of intentional program improvement that benefits your students and your community.