We are not aware of any other program that is pursuing such an ambitious goal of partnering a Catholic high school with a public university and then reaching out to private businesses. It will certainly be a first in the state of Nebraska. We plan to offer three introductory IT classes to our student body of 650 starting in August, 2000. Introduction to Computer Programming, Mathematical Foundations, and Introduction to Computer Concepts expect a total enrollment of 50 students during the first year. We hope to expand the program to six classes and 80 students during the second year of operation.
Students benefit by earning college credit for classes while still in high school.
They will have a head start on high paying, in-demand IT careers. We expect the dual credit system to be a big motivator for student learning and performance. We will evaluate the success of the program based on the performance of the students on college assignments and tests as well as feedback from area businesses participating in the program. All students must earn at least a C in the classes in order to receive college credit. Also, all students in job shadowing and internships must meet the expectations of the area business in order to continue in the program.