Today, the Academy of Engineering at Harmony Magnet Academy received the prestigious Excellence in Action award, which recognizes the best Career Technical Education (CTE) programs of study across the nation. The Academy of Engineering was one of eleven programs selected as an “Excellence in Action” award winner based on its track record of providing clear pathways into college and careers, rigorous academic and technical coursework, strong partnerships with industry leaders, and impactful work-based learning experiences that offer opportunities for career exploration and subject-matter mastery.
The Academy of Engineering received the award in the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Career Cluster from Advance CTE as a result of their commitment to providing their students, who are majority low-income and minority, with a seamless pathway to postsecondary education and successful careers in engineering. All students benefit from hands-on, real-world experiences, industry-recognized credential offerings and incredible partnerships in the community including the Chamber of Commerce business partners, the Workforce Investment Board and Porterville College. Last year, all students graduated high school, earned a credential and participated in work-based learning, and over half received dual credit. Representatives accepted the honor at an award luncheon and reception as part of the Advance CTE Spring Meeting in Washington, D.C.
“It is a great honor for Harmony Magnet Academy and Porterville Unified School District to be recognized by a national organization in support of career pathways,” Harmony Magnet Academy Principal Jeff Brown said. “We hope to be an example of what is possible in supporting student success.”
“I am so proud of these exemplary programs and all they offer learners across the country,” said Kimberly Green, Executive Director of Advance CTE. “Boasting impressive graduation and completion rates, credential attainment, and hands-on learning experiences, these programs demonstrate what high-quality CTE has to offer, and its ability to set students up for success across the spectrum of careers.”