Baltimore, MD - The Academy for College and Career Exploration (ACCE) presented its second graduating class this evening at a ceremony on the campus of Johns Hopkins University. Councilwoman Mary Pat Clarke gave remarks to the 56 graduates, their families, and ACCE faculty in attendance. All the graduates completed an individualized and rigorous academic curriculum that incorporated intensive career preparation experiences provided through the school’s many partnerships with higher education, business, and local government. The entire senior class applied to college and completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

“Baltimore City is obligated to provide our youth and young adults with a supportive environment with opportunities to learn and develop their skills,” said Councilwoman Mary Pat Clarke. “It makes all of us proud to see that these ACCE students have taken advantage of their opportunities and are continuing to pursue their education and careers.”

Launched in 2004 with the intent to provide students with a comprehensive menu of career awareness, exploration, and experience coupled with individualized guidance and attention, this small public “innovation” high school is operated by the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development and the Johns Hopkins University, Institute for Policy Studies in partnership with Baltimore City Public Schools.

Throughout their matriculation, students are exposed to a college and career-focused field of study that includes a freshman seminar on 21st Century Careers, job shadowing, field trips and junior year career-focused internships. ACCE students also participate in college prep classes and explore post secondary education through partnerships with the Baltimore City Community College, Johns Hopkins University, Morgan State, Stevenson University and many others.

Engaged year-round, students participate in summer jobs and credit recovery programs.
 
“At ACCE, the students and teachers are dedicated to fully implementing the school’s mission of providing comprehensive college and career preparation,” said 12th Grade Administrator Cheyanne Zahrt. “To receive an ACCE certificate, all students must apply to at least one college. The staff works diligently to ensure that each student will explore his/her options after high school.” 

ACCE’s 2009 graduates will be attending several prestigious higher education institutions, such as, Towson University, Bowie State University, Stevenson University, and St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

Located at 3600 W. 36th Street in Hampden for the past two years, ACCE’s success is due in large part to the support provided by many government, civic, business, philanthropic, educational and community partners including the Baltimore City Foundation, The Johns Hopkins University, the Family League, and the Young Audiences of Maryland that provides artists to teach the “careers in arts” program.

For more information about ACCE, call 410-396-6722 or visit www.accebaltimore.com.