Douglas County High School Programs Receive 'Stamp of Excellence'

From Douglas County School System: The Business and Computer Science pathway in all five of Douglas County’s high schools received industry certification from the Georgia Department of Education (GADOE) in late March. From August, 2016, through March, 2017, a team from the GADOE and the Society of Human Resource Management evaluated the programs at each school. The culminating event was a half day site visit the week of March 27.

“We are proud to receive this prestigious endorsement and know that our Business and Computer Science pathways meaure up to the highest standards,” said Superintendent Dr. Gordon Pritz. “These classes help students connect what they are learning in high school to a future career. We are committed to preparing our students for life beyond their senior year.”

When a program becomes industry certified, it receives a “stamp of excellence” which represents the apex of program quality. Only those programs that have successfully undergone rigorous reviews by leaders from business and industry are recognized with this distinction. Industry certified programs not only offer outstanding opportunities to students who receive instruction through such programs but also offer positive benefits for schools as well as employers. Industry certification is valid for five years.

“I appreciate the hard work of our Business and Computer Science teachers and students during the certification process,” said Mandy Johnson, Director of College and Career Programs for DCSS. “They are truly dedicated to their craft and want the best opportunities for their students.”

Douglas County offers over 25 Career Pathways in its Career, Technical, and Agricultural (CTAE) program. Career Pathways offer three to four specialized courses that provide students with skills needed in a particular career area. The courses are designed to benefit students whether they go straight into the workforce after high school or choose college or the military for additional training. In addition to the Business and Computer Science pathway, the DCSS has earned industry certification in the following pathways: Drafting, Early Childhood, Healthcare, Marketing, and Audio Visual. Industry certification is not available in some pathways.

Photo courtesy of Douglas County School System: Student presentations were part of the site visit for industry certification.