The vocational education Area Vocational Technical Learning Center program provides financial assistance for eligible local education agencies to develop, implement, and operate programs designed to prevent students from leaving school without a diploma and to encourage those who have left early to return and complete their education. The program must include career awareness activities and the opportunity for enrollment into a vocational skill training program. Financial assistance is provided to local education agencies that have Missouri State Board of Education designation as an area vocational school district.
Resident districts can receive state aid for students who qualify to a maximum of six hours per day.
The funds generated by attendance at the learning center can be transferred by the resident district to the learning center. Attendance does not have to fall within the regular hours of attendance at the resident district. Transportation may be provided by the resident district and claimed for state aid. A common activity is to invite others to visit and observe the program operation. Students are helped to identify careers that most appropriately fit interests and abilities.