Iowa Department of Education Director Ryan Wise announced a new advisory council to provide input on the development of Iowa’s state plan required under the federal Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. Iowa receives nearly $12 million annually in federal funds through the federal law, commonly referred to as Perkins V. The funding is equally divided between secondary and postsecondary career and technical education programs delivered through public school districts and community colleges. The Career and Technical Education Advisory Council will meet throughout the fall, with the first meeting scheduled for Oct. 23. Meetings are open to the public and a draft of Iowa’s state plan will be available for public comment by the end of the year. For a list of advisory council members and meeting schedule, click here.