AUGUSTA -- The Augusta-based non-profit organization Jobs for Maine's Graduates has received a $300,000 grant to support an expansion allowing it to reach more students throughout Maine.

The organization began in 1993 as a school-to-work program for high school seniors. It has evolved into a program that teaches workplace skills and connects students with employers. It serves more than 3,200 students per year at more than 60 school-based sites across the state.

The $300,000 grant is an award from the AT&T Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the telecommunications giant.

A formal Statehouse announcement about the award featuring Gov. John Baldacci will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

"Today, more than ever, we need to reach more Maine students," Jobs for Maine's Graduates President Craig Larrabee said in a statement. "We need every high school student out there to graduate prepared to compete in today's workforce and to continue their education."