Our District recognizes the important transition from middle school to high school. Beginning in the 2021-22 school year, as all students enter their high school journey, they will participate in Freshman Academy. They will explore careers and focus on skills for success in high school and beyond. During their freshman year, students will select an academy or a pathway at their school.

We understand that not all students know what they want to do in the future, and that is ok. This evolution of programming gives students the opportunity to explore potential career fields while gaining skills that will be beneficial in their future and lead to high skill, high wage and in-demand jobs. In the Academies and Pathways, some students will find their passion, while others may find something they thought they liked is really not for them. Either way, students will learn transferable skills that will help them succeed, no matter their future path. An advantage of being able to explore these opportunities in high school is there isn’t the financial impact to a family there is with college.

• Academy: Every freshman is assigned to be a part of an academic team which creates a smaller learning community to assist in transitioning to high school.
• OnTrack: Freshman team teachers monitor data to determine supports needed for students to remain on track to graduate.
• Seminar: Every freshman enrolls in this college and career exploration course where students explore interests, strengths, and pathway options within their own school.
• Involvement: Exploring multiple ways to engage students in their high school experience and designing activities to bring families to the school to build a connectedness to the school for all.
• Advisory Board: Each high school maintains an advisory board which works to foster community partnerships and enhance the freshman experience. The board includes representation of students, school leadership, community partners and local universities.
• Quality Classrooms: Students experiencing deeper content learning and developing the attributes of the Portrait of a Graduate.
• JumpStart: Three days of school-based summer activities prior to the start of a student’s freshman year to assist in the transition to high school.
• Orientation: Each school supports a dedicated, freshman-only day providing opportunities for students to build connectedness, possibilities, and voice for their upcoming four years of high school.
• Advisement: A defined time for students to connect with a caring adult during which they develop critical thinking, monitor academic progress, and build leadership skills.