As an Academy partner, there are many ways to get involved!

We've seen the best results from businesses who have multiple touch points with the students! There are many opportunities for your business to engage with students and the schools overall.

As a Business Partner, we ask that you participate in at least one Academy Advisory Board Meeting (meetings are held 2-3 times per school year) and offer/coordinate 2-5 activities with the students.

Engaging with high school students requires an understanding of their developmental stage, learning preferences, and the social dynamics that influence their behavior and engagement in the classroom. High school students are typically between the ages of 14 and 18, a period marked by rapid physical, cognitive, and emotional development. 

Whether you're new or familiar with working with high school students, our Academy Coaches have offered some tips for success:

1. Hold them to high expectations, but be mindful of their external challenges. A particular student may not have eaten last night, may have had a parent not home last night, might have witnessed violence, etc.

2. Keep it moving. These students are incredibly smart and may get bored quickly. Rather than going from speaker to speaker where students are only listening, consider switching up your class visit between speaking time and interactive time for the students. Set up stations and move them. Let them do a little something in each area.

3. For guest speakers, mix it up. Short 2-3 minute speaking segments, quick hands-on activity then more speaking. A changing flow will keep kids engaged.

4. Make sure students see the diversity of employees in your company - it is impactful.  The racial diversity of our students reflects the growing diversity in our community.  Ever heard the phrase "You can be what you can see"?  Seeing professionals that look like them is incredibly impactful to our students.  When hosting tours or visiting classrooms, strive to include a diverse set of employees.  For more information on how to engage diverse students, please visit the Resources section of this website.  

5. Communicate early! Especially if there are any issues with a student who is working for you. For many students, this is their first job and they don't know how to handle various situations.

6. School is the priority over anything. If a student starts failing a class, they could get pulled from their job (on that note, they also might want time off for pep rallies and awards ceremonies).

7. Leverage the expertise of the teacher. As an educator, teachers know the students and manage a classroom every day. Do your thing, then let the teacher take control.

8. Freebies & donated equipment. Have any branded materials to hand out? Kids like free stuff. Have any gently used equipment that you could donate to the school? This would make a huge impact, and we greatly appreciate it!

9. Don't be afraid. These students may be intimidated. If you're comfortable, they will be, too. They are excited to hear what you have to show and say! 

10. Be real & get personal. Tell kids if you are nervous or were nervous when you first experienced or did what you are taking about. Kids like it when people are real and can share real stories of their own struggles. Show them you care, inspire them to dream, and encourage them to work hard and achieve.

Business partnerships allow us to offer a wide range of activities that introduce students to firsthand learning experiences outside of the classroom. 

Business partners play a vital role in helping prepare our students for postsecondary and career success by providing meaningful, relevant learning experiences that directly relate to our world today. Local businesses and industries also benefit from Academies thanks to the development of a stronger pipeline of talent right here in Louisville, making our city and region an even greater place to live, learn and work.