Akron Public Schools is partnering with KeyBank to offer instructional support and real-world learning opportunities in the areas of business and finance at East Community Learning Center. The academy will be named the KeyBank Academy of Business and Health Services.
“KeyBank is playing an integral part in our students’ future with what is a significant contribution to experiential learning,” said David James, superintendent of Akron Public Schools. “We are grateful for our growing team of community partners who, like KeyBank, are connecting to our classrooms in a most meaningful way.”
Akron schools were designated a Ford Next Generation Learning Community last year. Supported by Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, the transformation of public high schools into career-themed academies is said to better prepare students for college and professional success in today’s competitive global economy.
Districts using this model have reported an increase in student achievement and engagement, along with more robust ties between local educators and employers, generating a stronger talent-development pipeline for jobs. Partnerships like the one involving the schools and KeyBank are vital to this model.
“We have made it our mission to create thriving communities, and we believe that quality education and strong workforce development programs are core to that mission,” said Tim Burke, KeyBank market president. “Through the creation of the KeyBank Academy of Business and Health Services, we are working to provide future generations with the necessary skill set for a viable career pathway.”
College and Career Academies of Akron are supported by the following strategic partners: GAR Foundation, United Way of Summit County, ConxusNEO, Summit Education Initiative and Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce.
The collaboration between Akron Public Schools and KeyBank was formed with the help of United Way of Summit County. “KeyBank has been a vital partner in our work to achieve our Bold Goal of raising high school graduation rates and college and career readiness among APS students,” said Jim Mullen, president and CEO of United Way of Summit County. “They are leading by example, showing that, by investing in our youth, businesses can help build a better local economy and a more talented workforce.”
For info, visit www.akronschools.com.
