Understanding the proper use of Perkins funds is essential for supporting and growing your Law and Public Safety (LPS) program. Perkins expenditures must align with your Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) and meet the definitions of Size, Scope, and Quality to ensure compliance with federal requirements.

• What You Need to Know:

  • Perkins funds must directly support student learning and program improvement.

  • All spending must connect to identified needs from the CLNA and be justified with documentation.

  • Perkins funds must supplement, not supplant existing state or local funding. Funds cannot replace what would otherwise be paid for through other sources.

  • Non-compliant use of funds can jeopardize future Perkins funding.

• Key Resources:

  • Uses of Perkins Funds – Learn about the six required uses of Perkins funds and documentation requirements.

  • CLNA Tool Template – Use this template to assess needs and align spending decisions with program goals.

Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are integral to Kentucky's Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, helping students develop leadership, communication, and technical skills through co-curricular activities, events, and competitions. Recognized as instructional tools, CTSOs are embedded into CTE curriculum and aligned with specific program areas, offering students opportunities to grow personally and professionally.

CTSOs also help districts meet Perkins V quality standards by enhancing program size, scope, and quality through leadership development activities. Each organization is affiliated with one or more CTE program areas, such as Agriculture, Health Science, Business, and Law and Public Safety, providing specialized support for career readiness.

For a complete list of Kentucky-recognized CTSOs and their program alignments, view the CTSO Guidance Document.

Advisory committees play a crucial role in ensuring that your LPS program remains relevant and aligned with current industry needs. These committees provide valuable input on curriculum, equipment, and work-based learning opportunities to better prepare students for careers in Law and Public Safety.

• What You Need to Know:

  • Advisory committees must include employers, parents, students, educators, and administrators to provide diverse perspectives.

  • Programs are required to hold a minimum of two advisory committee meetings per year to maintain compliance and foster collaboration.

  • Meeting agendas should focus on curriculum alignment, industry trends, student opportunities, and program improvement.

• Key Resources:

  • Guidelines for Perkins V Advisory Committees – Learn how to establish committees, schedule meetings, and document their input.

  • Perkins V Size, Scope, and Quality Q&A – Ensure your program meets federal standards for advisory committee engagement.