What’s Right With Our Schools: Houston County Career Academy students get a jumpstart in their career using the ‘Move on When Ready’ program

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Students in Houston County are receiving a high school diploma and a career certification at the same time through the ‘Move on When Ready’ program.

The ‘Move on When Ready’ program at Houston County Career Academy allows students to have hands-on learning experience.

“An employer wants them to have some experience working on cars safely and also know how to use tools and also know how to interact with other students or coworker, so it’s important for them to go ahead and get this, while they’re in high school,” automotive instructor, Jimmy Jones adds.

Some of the pathways offered include cosmetology, automotive, and criminal justice.

Houston County students do their academic work at their schools throughout the day, then for two class periods, they’re transported to the academy to work on the pathways.

The pathways give students knowledge about the businesses so they’ll  know what they’re doing before going into the field.

Cosmetology student, Arin Sharpe, says getting this exposure allows her to see what beauticians deal with everyday. Once she completes the course, she will receive a shampoo tech license.

“Coming into this, I didn’t really know anything at all, and so it kind of gives me more appreciation for like the people who are working,” Sharpe explains.

The program is free. Staff members say it’s beneficial to students and parents.

“Some kids find out, this is not what I want to do, which is a good thing, because parents hasn’t invested any money, they haven’t invested two years of college,”principal of Houston County Career Academy, Sabrina Phelps adds.