Experiences

Through the academy programs emphasis is placed on providing students with work-related learning experiences.

The experiences vary depending on the students' interests. Some activities are connected with specific courses, while others students choose to do in addition to their academic pursuits. Some of the experiences take place at McNeil High School. Others may be off-campus activities which require a permission form signed by a parent/guardian in order for a student to attend each event.

College & Career Fairs - Freshmen are invited to attend the RRISD PIE Foundation Career Exploration Event hosted annually at the Texas State University - Round Rock Campus. Juniors are invited to attend the annual Skillpoint Alliance College and Career Expo hosted at the Palmer Events Center. Texas State Technical College in conjunction with the Round Rock Express has a College Expo to showcase the more than 30 TSTC programs.

College Visits - These opportunities differ based on open houses and special events at the colleges.

Field Trips and Industry Tours - These experiences expose the students to different industries related to their program of study. This type of enrichment activity helps learning come to life for the students when they see "behind the scenes" operations of the businesses that produce the goods and services that touch their world everyday.

Guest Speakers - Classroom speakers help students broaden their awareness of different jobs and careers. The volunteers provide information about academic and technical skills required for a variety of jobs. They also help students make the connection between what they are learning in school and what they need to know as successful adults.

Internships (work-based learning) - Students may participate in a paid or unpaid temporary position. They usually require a longer term commitment than volunteering. Interns gain work experience and learn vital job skills. Sometimes students can step into full-time, paying positions. These can occur at McNeil High School as well as off campus.

Job Shadowing - The job shadowing experience gives students a realistic view of the work environment for different careers. They are able to gain a broader understanding of skills which are used in the business world and what is needed to become successful in the workplace.

Project Based Learning - PBL takes students through an extended process of inquiry in response to a complex question or challenge. Students are given a rigorous task that could be to solve a real-world problem, make a presentation about a topic they've studied, or create some sort of product. PBL is an active, engaging way to learn and helps students develop 21st Century Skills (solve problems, work in teams, communicate effectively, and use creative ideas).

Student Organizations - Students may join organizations and clubs that enhance their learning as well as to gain a positive image through competitive skill events, leadership development, and service projects. More information is available on the McNeil Website.

Workshops and Symposiums - Through forging effective partnerships with employers and the community leaders, a variety of opportunities link learning to the real world. To name a few, classes are enriched each year through activities such as:

• Semi HIGH Tech U - three-day, industry led introduction to the high tech industry, potential career paths, and educational requirements.
• Texas A & M Pre-Medical Symposium - informational workshops and activities for students who are interested in applying to medical school.
• University of Texas Edison Lecture Series - through interactive demonstrations and lectures student are introduced to the impacts of electrical engineering on the world.