A Career Expo recently brought together 3,500 freshmen students and 92 employers from the Little Rock Regional Chamber. This event is part of a larger effort to engage students in hands-on learning, benefiting nearly 11,000 high schoolers in the Jacksonville North Pulaski, North Little Rock, Little Rock, and Pulaski County Special School Districts.
The Academies of Central Arkansas is a key player in this initiative. Local business leaders have dedicated over 9,400 hours to mentoring students and educators. In addition, they have contributed almost $200,000 in resources like equipment and supplies.
Last school year, more than 1,000 students were able to participate in industry tours, job shadowing, and paid internships through the Academies. These activities help students explore potential career paths and design their learning experience based on their interests.
Freshmen begin their journey in the “Freshman Academy,” a supportive environment aimed at exposing them to new opportunities. Throughout the year, they hear from guest speakers from various industries and build essential skills like leadership and teamwork. This experience culminates in the annual Career Expo, where they can engage directly with potential employers.
As sophomores, students select an academy that aligns with their career goals. Each academy has a dedicated team of teachers and mentors who guide students throughout their high school journey. The lessons are shaped based on input from local businesses, ensuring relevance to real-world careers.
The full rollout of the Academies program is set for the 2025-26 school year, and early results in Pulaski County show promise. Enrollment and attendance are rising, while disciplinary issues and teacher turnover are decreasing.
Markous Jewett, from the Little Rock Regional Chamber, emphasized the positive impact of small learning communities. By partnering with local industry leaders, they create meaningful engagement that benefits both students and the community.
The 2023-24 school year marked a significant milestone for the Academies of Central Arkansas. With new partnerships, almost 11,000 students gained vital experiences in their desired careers. The number of business partners doubled last year, with contributions exceeding $198,000.
Additionally, the second Academy Ambassadors retreat helped student leaders develop key leadership skills like effective communication and community service. At the recent Career Expo, a variety of industries showcased opportunities, including healthcare, agriculture, engineering, and more.
Since its launch in late 2020, the Academies program has grown steadily. Full implementation across all 11 campuses will happen by the 2025-26 school year. To date, students have secured over 165 internships, earned 800 industry certifications, and received $14.7 million in scholarships.
