Pathway Partnerships with the Athens Community Career Academy
Pathway Partnerships with the Athens Community Career Academy
In August 2024, the Clarke County School District (CCSD) launched two new pathways for high school students as part of their Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program. The new pathways – Biotechnology and Firefighter/EMT – heavily involved ACCGov’s Economic Development and Fire departments in their development over several years. Both are centered at the Athens Community Career Academy.
Once the biotechnology pathway was approved for consideration, Economic Development and CCSD worked with local biotech manufacturers – especially those who hire high school graduates – to evaluate Georgia’s existing biotechnology pathway and shape it specifically for Athens. The local pathway launched in fall 2024 as a three semester program with the first cohort finishing their studies in December. Students who successfully complete the full pathway can sit for Biotility Biotechnician Assistant certification exams.
The firefighter pathway is led by Sgt. Michael Roberts and runs four semesters – two full years – with classes covering basic public safety, firefighter basics, and emergency medical responder topics. The curriculum also involves hands-on training at the Fire Training Center. Students who successfully complete the full pathway can sit for Firefighter I and EMT certification exams.
A new video featuring CCSD staff, ACCGov staff, and students in the program is available online along with pathway links and more details.