Rockdale County Public Schools has launched the Microsoft IT Academy in each of its high schools to provide students the opportunity to earn industry recognized credentials before graduating. This program is available to all students in Rockdale County through a partnership with the Georgia Department of Education and Microsoft.

The Microsoft IT Academy provides every high school student with the future-ready technology skills they need to be successful in college and a career. In the state of Georgia, there are more than 8,000 current, open, advertised jobs that require Microsoft technology skills (indeed.com, December 2012). These open positions require Microsoft technology skills and span all industries and job sectors, not just the technology industry. The Microsoft IT Academy embeds skills that enable students to collaborate, communicate, and to be critical thinkers, innovators, problem solvers and citizens of a global economy. The Microsoft IT Academy is an integrated curriculum within our existing business education pathway. Students can earn certification by completing the three-year course of study.

"Our vision for education in Rockdale County includes increasing options and opportunities for our students," said RCPS Superintendent Richard Autry. "The Microsoft IT Academy adds to the options our students have to increase their 21st Century technical skills and receive a valuable industry certification prior to entering the work force, higher education or the military."

Students interested in the Microsoft IT Academy should talk with their school counselor or business education teacher for more information.