Lifelong learning: Vallejo career academies thrive at Hogan High School

November 4, 8:37 PMVallejo Community ExaminerPatricia Kutza

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Welcome to another installment of the Vallejo Community Examiner series:

Lifelong Learning

It's every parent's dilemma:  How can they be assured that the curriculum their children are being taught stays  relevant in this rapidly evolving society?  There's certainly no guarantee that any training track can keep pace.  Vallejo's Hogan High School's career academies are one example of the type of program that is addressing the nexus of learning with real-world applications.  

 Three niches-Biotechnology, Hospitality/Recreation and Multimedia-are served within three separate academies that  are embedded into Hogan's core studies program.  The three year training track involves strong participation with the business community, starting with the second year when students are matched with mentors.  During the final year, students assume internships in  niche businesses . 

Starting with the tenth grade , interested students can apply and according to Phyllis James, Career Academies Curriculum Principal, all academies are open to kids of diverse background.  She says the academy class environment is particularly suited for kids 'at risk.'  "It gives them something to cling to."

James explains that the payback to the community is very evident: "Kids who attend these academies are very motivated to complete high school.  We see them grow up  to become responsible and participatory citizens."

 The academies themselves may be at risk depending on the outcome of the current discussions around potential Vallejo school consolidation.  Here is what the Times-Herald newspaper reported earlier this week.  In this video Ian Kaiser, a Career Pathways consultant instrumental in developing these Vallejo academies, talks further about their positive impact to the Vallejo community.

 Have you read the first installment of Lifelong Learning?  Strategies for transitioning to college

Hogan High School recently hosted the Gathering of Warriors

Stay tuned for the next installment when the Vallejo Community Examiner features               Hogan's Multimedia Academy....