Staff report

AUSTINTOWN — A large grant will help Austintown Fitch High School grow its curriculum by offering credential courses and skilled programs.

The district was recently awarded the Ohio Career Technical Education Equipment Grant, receiving $950,746.26, according to a news release.

Fitch applied for the grant, which will benefit four programs: skilled trades, drone education, business and marketing and family and consumer science.

“The administrative team at Austintown Fitch has diligently worked to ensure that students are well-prepared for life after high school. This grant will further support our efforts,” stated Salvatore Maiorana, Austintown Fitch High School principal.

Industry-recognized credential courses and pre-apprenticeship programs will take shape as a result of the grant, Dr. William Young, director of curriculum, stated.

Students in one of the four programs will learn skills and earn certifications needed to enter the workforce, apprenticeship or trade school, or enroll in a college degree program with a foundation in place.

Ways to provide education for evolving career paths are a priority for the district.

“Our team is constantly evaluating the job demands and emerging occupations in those industries in our region. We saw a need in our region for welders, analysts, design managers, drone imagery photographers, food service supervisors, just to name a few,” Young stated.

Maiorana is grateful to everyone who played a part in securing the grant and can’t wait to see students use skills derived from the award.

“I am eager to witness the positive impact this grant will have on the Austintown School District and community,” Maiorana stated.

Have an interesting story? Contact the newsroom by email at news@vindy.com Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, @TribToday