The Academy of Information Technology (AOIT) will introduce students to the broad career opportunities in today's digital workforce and, in the process, equip them with the personal, analytical, technical and communications skills they will need to thrive. A member program of the National Academy Foundation (NAF), the Academy of Information Technology operates as a "school within a school" and is located in more than 135 high schools nationwide.

Despite a volatile economy, information technology is everywhere, and the need for education to bridge the digital divide is more critical than ever. The Academy of Information Technology helps meet this need by preparing high school students for successful careers in information technology. Through their Academy experience, students gain an understanding of the connections that exist between their education and the workplace.

What is the vision for the implemented academy?     

The AOIT Academy model will consist of three component parts:

• A career-themed small learning community featuring NAF's curriculum   
• Community partnerships including the collaboration between the school and the larger community, toward the development of local advisory boards and paid student internships    
• Professional development through NAF conferences, technical assistance materials, and other local activities

The Academy program also features:

• Six- to eight-week paid internships at local small businesses, government agencies and corporations
• An introduction to all facets of the industry and exposure to current technology, through such activities as job shadowing, mentoring, and field trips
• Strong encouragement of mathematics, computer applications, and study of a foreign language--disciplines readily applicable to careers in the industry
• Enhanced opportunities for employment after graduation

Local vision of fully implemented academy includes:

• Cadre of 30-50 graduating annually with varying competencies/certification
  1. A+ certification
  2. Microsoft (MOS)
• 30-50 interns working in community during summer of junior year
• Six strands of comprehensive study - digital media, programming, web design, database, networking and technical support maintenance
• Small business startup support
• Academy graduates matriculating into workforce/higher education
• Articulation agreements with technical/community college

How will the curriculum be impacted or modified over the years to support the school's academy?

• Evolving instructional delivery (Shift from outcome based to project based instruction)

• Reduced reliance on paper documentation as information source

• Shift of classroom teacher from presenter to facilitator

• Students engaged in work that is:  Interdisciplinary, Standards Correlated

• Creation of smaller learning communities