The Pre–Business IT Academy provides an educational setting dedicated to the development of academic, social, and creative skills with the goal of creating responsible citizens. Students are introduced to the field of business and related careers through the use of information technology. Students participate in the co– curricular student organization, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), where they may earn certificates and awards for their student portfolios as well as earn an Internet Business Associate Certificate in their final year at the Pre–Business IT Academy. For more information, please contact Deena George. (Academy Uniform Information)

Curriculum

The Pre-Business IT Academy is designed for students who are interested in careers related to business and information technology. The program boasts a three-year rigorous curriculum related to business.

Sixth grade students entering the academy are introduced to the field of business and related careers through the use of information technology. Students may work toward learning technology via Code.org and/or Certified Internet Web Professionals units. Students may earn a certificate/ award from the co-curricular student organization, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), for their optional work in the Middle Level LEAD program.

Seventh grade students will continue to build upon the intermediate skills to advanced levels of business leadership and technology skills. In addition, students will earn an Industry Certification Credential from Certified Internet Web Professionals or Learnkey and an optional award earned from the National FBLA LEAD program. 

Eighth grade students continue through advanced levels in business leadership and technology skills with the optional award from FBLA in the LEAD program. Students may also earn an Industry Certification Credential from Certified Internet Web Professionals or Learnkey in the final year of the Pre-Business IT Academy.

Sensitive topics notification: The Academy’s curriculum will study issues that can be considered sensitive in nature. These issues include cyber-bullying,/ cyber-safety, and business ethics.

Academic Honor Code

Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Copying or cheating will result in a grade of zero. Students are required to read and adhere to the Computer Regulations, Violations, and Consequences Contract. Students who abuse this contract by using someone else's password, accessing unauthorized materials, or using the computers and/or equipment for inappropriate actions will face appropriate school consequences, such as possible out-ofschool suspension, and/or be denied access to the technology. No one accesses information by mistake. It is the responsibility of the student to report to the teachers or administrators any possible unauthorized computer access.

Courses

Grade 6:
These courses are designed to provide instruction in intermediate keyboarding, word processing, electronic presentation, computer hardware, Internet, introductory spreadsheet, and soft skills for business applications. The purpose of these courses is to provide a comprehensive exploration of the core business themes. Students will rotate through content which may include accounting, administrative support, digital publishing, entrepreneurship, international business, and management.

Grade 7: Digital Discoveries
The purpose of this course is to assist students in making informed decisions regarding their future academic and occupational goals and to provide information regarding careers in the Information Technology career cluster. The content includes but is not limited to foundational knowledge and skills related to web and software development in the information technology industry. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experience with the equipment, materials and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices. Students will be provided with opportunities to acquire and demonstrate leadership skills and may have the opportunity to earn an Industry Certification credentials from Certified Internet Web Professionals.

Grade 8: Computer Fundamental*
The purpose of this program is to give students an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills related to the area of Emerging Technology in Business. The content includes but is not limited to electronic research methods; business communications including speaking, listening, writing, and telecommunicating; multimedia presentation skills; ethical considerations related to technology; and emerging technologies affecting business environments. Instruction is designed to provide an understanding of the advances being made in technology today and in the future. Students may also earn Industry Certification credentials from Certified Internet Web Professionals. *The eighth grade class is a high school credit, provides a practical arts credit, and an occupational completion point. .