Hooks ISD, Texarkana College to Benefit From Texas Career Training Grant

Hooks ISD and Texarkana College are teaming up to expand career training opportunities for students through a $345,548 grant awarded by the State of Texas.

The funding is part of more than $20 million in Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Monday. The grants help schools purchase equipment needed to develop or expand career and technical education programs that prepare students for jobs in high-demand fields.

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The local grant will support training for 50 students pursuing careers as registered nurses, with Hooks Independent School District partnering with Texarkana College to provide the training.

The grant is among 84 awarded statewide through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). State officials estimate the new equipment purchased through the grants will help train more than 7,400 students during the first year.

“Students deserve a clear and affordable path to high-paying careers,” Abbott said, noting that the funding is intended to help students earn licenses, certificates and degrees that can lead to well-paying jobs.

 

Preparing Students For In-Demand Careers

The JET program helps cover the start-up costs of career and technical education programs, allowing schools to acquire the equipment needed to train students for specific occupations.

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For Hooks ISD, and Texarkana College, both in Bowie County, the funding provides an opportunity to help prepare more students for careers in nursing, a field that requires specialized education and hands-on training.

More Grants Awarded Across Texas

The state announced 84 grants covering a range of occupations, including nursing, welding, heating and air conditioning, electrical work, health technology and industrial maintenance.

The Texas Workforce Commission's JET grant program provides the complete list of grant recipients.

The commission plans to release its 2027 JET grant application later this fall, giving eligible schools and training providers another opportunity to seek funding for career education programs.