R277-731-4. Superintendent Responsibilities and Award Prioritization

(1) Beginning with the 2026-2027 fiscal year, dependent on available funds, the Superintendent shall make the application available beginning May 15. (2) Prioritization for grant funding will be given to an LEA that: (a) proposes innovative programming supported by local labor market data; (b) collaborates with local postsecondary institutions and industry; (c) demonstrates the ability to sustain the APEX center after the grant period; (d) demonstrates a strong focus on student outcomes and workforce alignment; (e) addresses gaps in high-demand, high-skill career pathways; (f) ensures funds are used to enhance programming quality before expansion; and (g) provides for a large number of students to participate in APEX center programs without limiting participation to students based on socioeconomic challenges. (3) For the purposes of Subsection (2)(b): (a) coordination with local postsecondary institutions and industry shall be directed by the LEA in a manner that the LEA determines is in the best interest of the program; and (b) the level of collaboration may be tailored to the individual needs of each program, and each offering within the program. (4) Subsection (2)(g) shall not be interpreted to mean that LEAs with more students are prioritized over LEAs with fewer students. (5) Grant funds may be distributed through smaller planning grants. (6) The Superintendent may use up to 1% of the funds appropriated by the Legislature to administer the program.