To celebrate the successful completion of the 2025–2026 our Day 2 Cybersecurity Pathways program, our students took a well-earned field trip to Topgolf. But this wasn’t just fun and games—it was also a unique opportunity to explore the technology behind the scenes. Students learned how Topgolf uses RFID-enabled golf balls, sensor networks, and data tracking systems to create an interactive, tech-driven experience. It was a great chance to see real-world applications of cybersecurity and IT systems in the entertainment industry. From tech discussions to team swings, the day was both educational and memorable. We're proud of our students and all they’ve accomplished this year! 

Students in criminal justice 2 are just finished our unit on domestic violence.  They learned the laws and policies on mandatory arrest, determining the primary aggressor, and all resources available to our residents who may be experiencing domestic issues in the their homes.

Students handled "domestic calls" and had to make the appropriate arrest and issue the Emergency Protective Order.

Students recently got hands-on experience installing Windows 10 Pro locally on laptops, learning how to set up partitions, configure settings, and ensure a smooth installation. This real-world practice gave them a deeper understanding of system setup, troubleshooting, and the importance of a clean installation. Mastering these skills is a huge step toward becoming confident IT professionals!

Next, we’re diving into the world of virtualization by installing multiple operating systems using VirtualBox! Students will explore how virtual machines work, experiment with different OS setups, and gain critical skills for managing IT environments. Get ready to level up your tech game and unlock new possibilities in system administration!

Disassembling a laptop and creating a step-by-step guide gives students invaluable skills like attention to detail, technical writing, and hardware troubleshooting. This hands-on task sharpens problem-solving and teamwork while building confidence with delicate electronics. By documenting their process, students turn practical experience into a resource for future repairs, bridging classroom knowledge with real-world tech skills. 

Second-year High Tech Academy students recently tackled a hands-on reverse engineering project. Each student brought in a familiar object, then carefully disassembled it to study its components and functionality. This activity challenged them to think critically about design and functionality, reinforcing skills essential for future engineers. Through hands-on exploration, students gained a deeper appreciation of how everyday items are constructed and learned to document each part’s purpose with precision.

Students in criminal justice have been learning about forensic evidence collection at crime scenes.  Year one students have focused on collecting fingerprints, imprints, and impressions.  Year two students have been practicing whole scene collection and documentation.  

The Student Wellness and Belonging Committee strives to make ALL ACE Center at Highland Springs students and families feel welcome, included, and like they belong at our school! We look forward to a great year of inclusive activities! Welcome to the ACE Center at Highland Springs! 

In our latest cybersecurity class, students experienced the thrill of hands-on learning by disassembling and reassembling a desktop computer. The lab was filled with excitement as they carefully removed components like RAM and hard drives, many for the first time. Reassembling the machine tested their knowledge and focus, but the real reward came when the computers powered back on, greeted by cheers. This exercise not only deepened their understanding of hardware but also sparked a newfound passion for the intricacies of cybersecurity.