Students at Kenmore-Garfield High School to benefit from experiential learning in and out of the classroom
Akron Public Schools (APS) announced today its partnership between Kenmore-Garfield High School and Acme Fresh Market. The partnership is part of the large community of businesses engaging with the College & Career Academies of Akron. Acme Fresh Market will offer instructional support and real-world learning opportunities in areas of construction and building technology, culinary arts, and nursing and patient care. The academy will be named the Acme Fresh Market Academy of Innovation and Industry.
Superintendent David W. James, Ed.D. said, “Our students will certainly benefit from the wisdom offered by the resources of a 130 year old, landmark business. I am delighted to hear Acme Fresh Market is joining our impressive list of partners and know this will enhance educational opportunities for Kenmore-Garfield students.”
“Acme Fresh Market is excited to support the great work of the Akron Public Schools! Our expert associates look forward to supporting Garfield’s teachers by providing real-world experiences. We will have fun learning from each other while creating opportunities for our community’s kids – a win, win!,” said Katie Swartz, Acme’s Vice President of Marketing.
The collaboration between Akron Public Schools and Acme Fresh Market was formed with the help of United Way of Summit & Medina. United Way serves as a link between the College and Career Academies of Akron and local businesses to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and to strengthen the education to employment pipeline in Summit County.
“We are incredibly grateful to Acme Fresh Market for working with us to make this partnership with the College & Career Academies of Akron happen,” said Jim Mullen, president and CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina. “With its long, 130-year history in Akron, Acme understands the importance of investing in our youth, so that they and the generations that follow them can enjoy the benefits that come from a rewarding career, a stable economy and secure families.”
APS was designated a Ford Next Generation Learning Community in May 2017. Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, is supporting the transformation of public high schools into career-themed academies to better prepare students for college and professional success in today’s competitive global economy. College and Career Academies of Akron are supported by the following key strategic partners: GAR Foundation, United Way of Summit & Medina, ConxusNEO, Summit Education Initiative, and Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce.