A. The State Board of Career and Technology Education is authorized to assist, and, if funds including but not limited to state appropriations are available, or if private or corporate donations or other sources are matched in pilot projects, to make grants to, local boards of education for the establishment of pilot projects that would aid in the providing of technology education to middle school students. Funding may cover the cost of equipment, books and materials, and the start-up costs of developing the technology education program. Projects may involve entire districts, combinations of districts, combinations of schools, or elements of schools individually or in combination.

B. If funds are available on or before March 31, 1993, the State Board of Career and Technology Education shall determine pilot project criteria, and by July 1, 1993, solicit proposals, and establish a process for the consideration of proposals. Such proposals for pilot projects shall be considered on a statewide competitive basis.

C. The State Board of Career and Technology Education is authorized to promulgate rules for the operation of such projects and to grant exceptions to rules for districts selected to operate such projects. The State Board of Career and Technology Education shall have the authority to require termination of a pilot project or its continuation at any time that it finds such termination to be in the best interests of the students involved.

Added by Laws 1992, c. 232, § 2. Amended by Laws 2001, c. 33, § 133, eff. July 1, 2001.