Granite City High School's Career Academy Program

Overview:
The Granite City High School implemeted a program known as Career Academies in the summer of 2007. This program gives students exposure to different aspects of diverse careers and allows students to select from five career pathways. The Career Academy program is a student-focused format that allows classrooms to participate in project-based learning and preparing students for becoming part of the work force.

This program will launch one part this school year - The Freshmen Academy. Beginning the 2008-2009 school year, all students will be part of one of the five Career Academies with a greater focus on a career pathway that will ease the transition from high school post-secondary school or training (work, military, apprenticeship, trade school, community college, or university).

Please click here to view a comprehensive presentation highlighting the details of the program.

National Career Academy Coalition

Quotes from students who have participated in the Freshmen course, Career Pathways, at GCHS:

"Now that I have been in this class I have learned that life will be difficult when I get out on my own. Before this class I thought it would be a lot easier. My advice to my classmasted would be to get an idea of what you would like to do for a career before you are out of high school. Then have backup plans in case this fails."

"This program has changed my view about life completely. Now I realize how much it costs a month to pay for bills and groceries and all of life's little hassles. In high school I am going to study very hard and get good grades so I can get a good job to pay for all my expenses when I love on my own. I am also going to learn to save money to get into a good college."

"Some advice I would give someone who wanted to live on their own would be to use your money and time wisely. Don't fool around in school because it will affect you when you do decide to pay your own bills and get a job. Be smart about your choices and you will succeed."

"Advice I would give a classmate about being on your own would be to know where you are going. If you don't plan ahead and budget, you'll find yourself in a deep hole. Spend your money wisely; life isn't all fun and games. You have to take care of bills and things that are unexpected."

"This program has made me think of how hard the world actually is. I don't want to go on my own for a long time. If I could give a fellow classmate advice about being on your own, I would tell them to not buy the most expensive car and apartment."