In this file photo, Senior Daniel Bustamante, 17, makes some adjustments so he can change his bits during a precision machining class funded by the Joint Technical Education District or JTED at Desert View High School. Working with the county and the Workforce Investment Board, the program is meant to increase the number of qualified machinists. In addition, it is hoped the classes will create new links with local industry by way of internships and later well-paying jobs. Photo was taken on Wednesday, October 30, 2013, in Tucson, Ariz. Photo by A.E. Araiza/ Arizona Daily Star

 A.E. Araiza / Arizona Daily Star

Two foundations stepped forward to add $25,000 in funding to the county’s career and technical education district.

The Women’s Foundation of Southern Arizona gave $15,000 in grant money and the Connie Hillman Family Foundation, $10,000 as a gift, to help the Pima County Joint Technical Education District.

The money helps cover the costs of industry-required certification in programs including licensed nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, fire service, law and public safety and cosmetology.

TUSD begins priority open enrollment

Priority open enrollment began Nov. 15 for the Tucson Unified School District.

Families can apply for any district school or magnet program through open enrollment.

Application forms can be accessed at the district’s school community services office at 1010 E. 10th St. in Building B, or online at www.tusd1.org/enroll. They are also available at Family Resource Centers at:

  • Catalina High School 3645 E. Pima St.;
  • Palo Verde High School 1302 S. Avenida Vega;
  • Southwest Alternative High School 6855 S. Mark Road and;
  • Wakefield Middle School 101 W. 44th St.

The deadline for the first lottery, which will be held in late January, is Jan. 13. All applications received after deadline will be entered into a subsequent lottery.

For more information, call 225-6400.

Marana schools showcase coding skills

Marana schools will showcase their elementary students’ coding skills at two events.

Gladden Farms Elementary School will host its Epic Builds event Tuesday from 8:30 to 10:25 a.m. at its campus, 11745 W. Gladden Farms Drive.

On Wednesday, Quail Run elementary students will show off their skills from 8:45 a.m. to noon at the school, 4600 W. Cortaro Farms Road.

Student projects include special effects and varying levels of interactive games.

Esperero Middle hosts open house

Esperero Canyon Middle School will host an open house event Dec. 1 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The school’s campus is at 5801 N. Sabino Canyon Road.

Prospective parents and students can come learn more about the school’s programs.

Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today.

Compiled by Star reporter Yoohyun Jung. Contact Yoohyun at 573-4243 or yjung@tucson.com. On Twitter: @yoohyun_jung