The Mid-Prairie School Board approved the writing of a Credentials to Careers grant application that would open the opportunity for additional certification programs for students at Mid-Prairie High School.

The grant, which is offered by the Iowa Department of Education, is a fund-matching grant which allows for purchases that “support the development of industry-recognized credential opportunities for students.” A fund matching partner has already been secured in the Mid-Prairie Foundation, which is funded through the Hills Bank Classroom Cash program.

If awarded, the grant would be used to purchase a class set of 25 PC laptops that, unlike the district’s current Macintosh laptops, can run the full Microsoft suite. This would allow the district to offer Microsoft and accounting credentials within its curriculum. The grant would also purchase a printer, Chromecast, and licensing vouchers for the program. In total, the funds would purchase $27,514.06 in equipment, software and vouchers. 

The request to apply was approved unanimously. The application must be completed by May 30. Awards will be announced on June 30 and implemented in the 2025-2026 school year.