Academy Options

WHO:

• All students grade nine to twelve

WHY:

• The academies prepare students for college and career, including careers after high school: Students should possess the academic and technical abilities to succeed in college, apprenticeships, community college certification programs, and some skilled jobs.

• They create an engaging curriculum: Students apply academics to real-world issues and situations through project-based learning, internships, and job shadowing.

• They place value on life skills: Teaching students to work collaboratively, think critically, and solve problems is as important as teaching them academic knowledge.

• They improve student achievement and provide equal access: Although there may be waiting lists for academies, admission should be open to all students within the district, regardless of their academic ability.

   

HOW: 

• Multiyear courses: The career technical curriculum should include at least three or four yearlong courses that are infused into the core academics.

• Project-based learning: This gives students the chance to apply what they've learned to a real-world problem, which helps make school relevant.

• Community partnerships: Academies need the support and participation of local businesses and industries for funding and resources and for opportunities for job shadowing, internships, and mentorships.

• Support: With so many at-risk students, academies must have a strong network of support services to help students master the academic and career content.

All ninth-grade students enroll in Freshman Academy set-up to help with the transition to high school, reduce dropout rates, and teach SEL strategies helping students to create bonds with peers and staff while building community. All students will be enrolled in math, English, science, health, freshman experience, and an elective. In the freshman experience class students learn about options and pathways available to them at the Academies at South Mountain to help make an informed decision on their pathway through their high school career.

Students have a choice of different academies offering a practical, hands-on approach to learning in fields that interest them.

The Academies empower students through career exposure so they can make timely, informed decisions and discover their true passions while earning early college credit and nationally recognized industry certifications.

The academies and pathways include:

Science, Technology, and Aerospace

Aerospace

• Airport Operations and Safety

• Aircraft Maintenance

• Flight

Engineering

Healthcare

• Biotechnology and Forensic Science

• Pharmacy Technician

Computer Science

• Networking and Cyber Security

• Software Development

Media Arts and Design

Communication Arts

• Audio

• Video

Performing Arts

• Dance

• Music

• Theatre

  • Acting

  • Stagecraft

Visual Arts

• 3D – Ceramics

• 2D – Photo

• 2D – Draw, Paint, and Printmaking

• 2D – Digital Arts and Animation

Public and Social Service

Business and Marketing

Early Childhood Education

Law