685608 - Iowa Industry to Classroom Academy CTE Teacher Mentoring Grant Program

The Iowa Industry‑to‑Classroom Academy (I2C) is launching a two‑year pilot mentorship program for early‑career CTE teachers. The initiative pairs new teachers (mentees) with experienced industry professionals (mentors) to provide pedagogical training, tuition reimbursement, and professional development. The program includes structured coursework, monthly mentoring sessions, and a capstone project, with stipends for both mentors and mentees and travel reimbursements. Funding is provided through IowaGrants, and districts act as fiscal agents for reimbursements. • Target audience: New and emerging CTE teachers (mentees) and qualified industry professionals (mentors) in Iowa. • Financial incentives: $500 per year tuition stipend for mentees, $2,000 per year mentor stipend, plus mileage, meals, lodging, and substitute pay reimbursements. • Program timeline: Starts Oct 1 2026, runs through Jun 30 2028 (≈21 months) with phases for pre‑program, Year 1, Year 2, and completion. • Deliverables: Completion of six CTE pedagogy coursework areas, monthly mentorship activities, observation & feedback, a final capstone project, and optional presentations at conferences. • Administration: Managed by the Iowa Department of Education; districts submit reimbursements via IowaGrants; application deadline Nov 13 2026.