In Stony Point High School’s Business and Industry Academy, students have the opportunity to spend their day learning interactive skills like raising animals, developing business plans and earning certifications all within the campus.
The Business and Industry Academy offers 17 programs of study, including agricultural mechanics and metal technologies, floral design and digital media. The hands-on programs engage students with knowledge that can be used in either college or career pathways after leaving Stony Point.
“Stony Point has very strong programming with the largest offering of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs within the District,” said Kevin Johnson, Stony Point academy specialist. “We offer extensive opportunities for our students to explore their interests and skills through CTE and do a great job extending our programs with internships and job shadowing.”
Students within the Academy can also earn certifications recognized by professional industries to set the foundation for a high-paying career right out of high school. The Academy offers 15 available certifications, ranging from computer maintenance to QuickBooks.
“One of the biggest benefits of working in a CTE class is getting hands-on experience and that’s really important when you’re trying to work and make money outside of high school,” Stony Point Junior Jadyn Allen said. “I love the people and the environment in our classes too. It’s like a family.”
Stony Point is host to world class CTE facilities, including the latest agriculture science facility, which was completed as part of the 2014 Bond. The facility includes classrooms, a barn to house animals and an arena for competition, all of which are used to teach students in the animal science and veterinary science tracks of study.
The floral design room is also home to industry-grade floral refrigerators and students have access to blooming flowers throughout the year to practice their skills.
“CTE is one of the most valuable programs our students can take,” said Mandy Fehlis, Stony Point CTE teacher. “CTE gives our students applicable skills to solve real world problems. They can use the skills they’ve been taught in core classes and apply it in a real world setting.”
Round Rock ISD, in celebration of National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, is highlighting academy and CTE programs at each of the District’s five comprehensive high schools. Stories will be updated each Wednesday throughout the month of February on the Round Rock ISD website.
