A group of special academies offers high school students hands-on training in their chosen field, in addition to traditional classes.
By DONNA WINCHESTER
Published August 29, 2004
OVERVIEW: High school career academies offer students who have specific career goals the chance to work toward them while studying academic subjects. Because the specialized classes are offered in addition to the regular high school curriculum, students can opt to attend college after graduation. But they often are sufficiently prepared to enter their career fields immediately. On-the-job training and mentoring from professionals are typically part of the programs.
THE PROGRAMS: The Career Academy for International Culture and Commerce at Clearwater High School exposes students to international business, international studies and multicultural diversity. It has two strands: business systems technology and marketing essentials. The Graphic Arts Academy at Dixie Hollins High School in St. Petersburg prepares students for careers in the printing or graphic design industries. The Academy of Architectural Design and Electrical Technologies at Dunedin High School prepares students for careers in drafting and residential wiring. The architectural design strand offers instruction in computer assisted design. The residential wiring strand trains students in installation, operation, maintenance and repair of state-of-the-art residential electrical systems. The Automotive Academy at Northeast High School in St. Petersburg trains students in automotive body repair and technology. The Veterinary Science Academy at Tarpon Springs High School prepares students for veterinary science careers.
ELIGIBILITY: Students do not have to have a particular grade point average to qualify for a career academy, but they must maintain a 2.0 while in a career academy. An applicant's disciplinary record is considered. About 25 students are enrolled in each career program at each grade level.
HOW TO APPLY: There is a two-part application process for career academy programs. Parents must first call an automated phone system during the application period. Then, they must call during an acceptance period to accept a program invitation. (Please see the procedure for applying to countywide programs on Page .)
