The Career Academy model debuted at our three high schools in September of 2017. Each of three themed academies has a unique curriculum that exposes students to innovative teaching methods, diverse tools and materials, unique authentic experiences, and challenging tasks.
The Academies are designed to prepare students for both specialized college programs and careers by providing high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) experiences in nine areas, many of which allow students to earn certifications. The primary function of the Academies is to model practices, activities, and build teacher capacity, with the ultimate goal of rolling out these pathways at all three high schools.
At High School North, the Arts Academy builds on a strong culture of arts-infused education, leading students to careers in the Performing, Fine, and Digital Arts, while teaching them to apply their creative skills to other disciplines. The arts mindset is valuable in every setting, as students learn to experiment, innovate, create, and express themselves.
The STEAM Academy (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) at High School East includes Schools of Engineering, Biomedicine, Digital Media and Broadcast Journalism, and Environmental and Marine Science, with content in, medicine, engineering, science research, genetics, advanced manufacturing, and more. Students in this academy will focus heavily on problem solving and the design process.
High School South is the site of the Business Academy. This academy features Schools of Finance and Entrepreneurship/Real Estate. Whether interested in working in the Wall Street big leagues, selling and marketing products and services, or starting their own business, students joining this academy will have a strong impact on both our local community and global society.
The Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) Academy, housed at High School North, isoffered to all high school students in the district. The program teaches character education, student achievement, health and wellness, leadership and diversity and it is jointly conducted through a partnership between the U.S. Department of Defense and our school district.
In addition to promoting citizenship, JROTC also prepares students for postsecondary options including college or the workforce. Through cadet-run programs and team competitions, students learn invaluable professional skills like leadership, teamwork, time management, self-discipline and communication.
The Academies have drawn mentors, partners, guest speakers, and significant sponsors that have allowed students to connect with a larger world and access incredible new spaces, equipment, experiences, and courses.