Houston County launches Academy of Innovation for hands on student learning

New hybrid program combines virtual classes with real world projects and community partnerships

HOUSTON COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Academy of Innovation is a hybrid program where students combine virtual learning with hands on experience in the classroom and the community.

Lead teacher Jacob Harvey says the program is centered around collaboration and real world application.

“We are having kids come in and working in groups it’s project based, they will be also partnered with business and industry leaders in our community that each of these sprints which are six to nine week projects will connect to the industry leaders and the businesses in the community,” Harvey said.

Students will take part in sprints, which are six to nine week projects focused on real world skills.

From building drones to creating business models, the goal is to connect classroom learning to future careers.

“It’s to really help show the kids that this is what’s here in the community, this is what makes your learning real, this is your real world experience,” Harvey said.

Houston County School District Superintendent Dr. Richard Rogers says the academy is also about giving students flexibility while still building important life skills.

“We got to innovate, we got to make sure our students are ready for the workforce when they graduate. Part of that is right now we’re working on the portrait of a graduate, what skills do students need. Yes, they need to be able to read and do math but they also need to be able to work with others, they need to be able to create products, they need to be able to stand up and present the products and that’s where this is coming in,” Rogers said.

The program also brings in local businesses and community partners, giving students a look at opportunities right in their area.