The Falls City Career Academy will open during the 2024-2025 school year as part of the Southeast Nebraska Career Academy Partnership (SENCAP) offered through Southeast Community College. The academy will offer five programs in the career pathways of Agriculture, Construction, Education, Healthcare and Welding. Students will take courses in each pathway at the SCC Learning Center at Falls City. Students from Falls City High School, Falls City Sacred Heart and Humboldt-Table Rock-Steinauer will be taking classes in the academy.
"Preparing the next generation of a skilled workforce requires innovative approaches to education. Our high school career academy will offer a variety of educational experiences, equipping students with not just academic knowledge, but real-world skills and industry exposure. By merging our high school coursework with hands-on learning, we will enable students to succeed in the ever-evolving job market, ensuring they graduate not just prepared for college, but poised for success in their chosen career paths", said Falls City Public Schools superintendent Tim Heckenlively.
The Falls City Career Academy is the newest way students can earn college credit in high school. Falls City Public Schools has a long history of taking advantage of SENCAP courses offered through SCC with 52 students enrolled in at least one college level course through the academy or SENCAP. These students make up 32% of the Falls City High School population in grades 10-12 for the Fall 2024. Overall enrollment in the academy for each program in the Fall is currently at:
1. Agriculture: 8 students
2. Construction: 11 students
3. Education: 6 students
4. Healthcare/CNA: 8 Students
5. Welding: 24 Students
There are several benefits to taking college courses while in high school. The first benefit is the cost of each course. Currently, SENCAP courses cost $43 per credit hour as compared to $123 per credit hour at SCC or a range of $192-$259 at other colleges or universities in Nebraska.
The standard three credit hour course will cost $129 for SENCAP students while the same class will cost $369 at SCC. A three-credit hour course at other colleges and universities will cost $576-$777. In addition, students accrue less debt in college.
Another benefit is it speeds up the completion of college degree programs. Several FCPS earned college degrees in three years because of completing an entire year of college in high school. In addition, students enrolled in the career academy may earn a certificate depending on the career pathway they choose. This will make them career ready to enter the local workforce straight from high school.
Additionally, high school students planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduating, will have the opportunity to earn a Certificate at SCC while in high school. The Certificate can increase employment opportunities, potentially provide higher pay, and allow students to demonstrate training and understanding in selected occupations.
Finally, the experience makes the transition to college much easier. These students already know how to register for courses and have a plan for completing a degree.
“The collaboration for the career academy at the SCC Learning Center at Falls City will greatly benefit students who enroll in Dual Credit as well as the local community’s workforce. Students can also continue to further their education after high school at an SCC campus or at the Learning Center at Falls City,” said Cinda Konken, Dean of Extended Learning at SCC.
The Falls City Career Academy and the continued use of SENCAP courses are key pieces in developing an educated workforce for southeast Nebraska. This program will put money back in the pockets of our local families and make Falls City a hub for education and career development in the area.