As part of its 10-year strategic plan, the Agua Fria High School District and WESTMARC announce the Academies of the Southwest Valley, a new workforce initiative, connecting students with the business community. The Academies highlights the shared commitment to providing a tailored academic experience that prepares students with the essential skills for success after graduation.
“We are excited to partner with the local business community to launch The Academies. The Academies will give every student extensive exposure to work-based learning that not only enriches their educational experience but also strengthens the workforce of our cities, fostering economic growth and sustainability by cultivating a skilled and adaptable workforce,” stated Trey Terry, Governing Board Member.
Starting in Fall 2024, all incoming freshmen will enroll in the Freshman Experience Course, where they will identify their career aspirations and post-high school goals. During the Freshman Experience, students will explore each Academy and the associated pathways offered at their high school. This will allow them to choose an Academy that best aligns with their college, trade school, workforce, or military ambitions.
Pathways are industry-specific focuses within each Academy designed to offer a more personalized academic experience. Throughout their four years in the Academies, students will participate in various workforce experiences that align with their pathway, including internships, mentoring, access to guest speakers, job shadowing, and workplace tours. Students will understand the educational or credential requirements for their college or career endeavors and can earn industry-recognized credentials and dual enrollment credits.
In line with the District ‘s Portrait of a Graduate vision, students will develop essential skills like communication, collaboration, integrity, responsibility, and critical thinking. They will build a four-year portfolio showcasing these employability skills and industry knowledge as part of their capstone project.
Local business partners play a vital role in hosting these workforce experiences. Along with educators, they have committed to sharing the responsibility for crafting character and shaping our students for the future workforce.
“We are proud of the powerful partnerships WESTMARC and Agua Fria High School District are creating with local businesses, setting apart the Academies of the Southwest Valley from other academic programs in Arizona,” said Sintra Hoffman, President and CEO of WESTMARC. “These partnerships are invaluable to the program’s uniqueness and foundational in carrying our shared vision of providing every student with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed after graduation. Partnerships are key to workforce success in our region and state.”
To explore the Academies of the Southwest Valley visit aguafria.org/academies.