Deer Trail 26J School District

Grant Period: 2026–2029
Mike Jobman, Superintendent
Amanda Clayton, Vo-Ag/FF Advisor, Deer Trail Jr/Sr High School

Focus: PlasmaCAM and STEM

Deer Trail School District 26J’s three-year vision is to expand equitable, career-connected learning by providing students in grades 8–12 with access to advanced fabrication and digital manufacturing technology. Centered on the implementation of a PlasmaCam cutting table, the initiative builds students’ precision design, math, literacy, and problem-solving skills through authentic, hands-on projects. Over three years, the program will integrate across agriculture, welding, construction, and STEM while introducing students to industry-relevant competitions, certifications, and community showcases. In a rural community with limited local employment options, this work closes technology and workforce skill gaps while strengthening confidence, belonging, and clear postsecondary pathways for all students.