BHS & FPHS pilot Microsoft Academy

Battlefield and Forest Park high schools, home to Prince William County’s two Information Technology (IT) Specialty Programs, are among 30 high schools statewide selected to pilot the Microsoft IT Academy Program.

Virginia Gov. Robert “Bob” McDonald and Microsoft announced the launch of the program on Sept. 14.

According to a news release highlighting the announcement “The Microsoft IT Academy provides students and teachers with real-world technology skills needed to thrive in the 21st century global economy.” Virginia is the third state in the country to implement the program.

“The Microsoft IT Academy is a comprehensive program that supports ongoing technology education for students, teachers and other education professionals spanning computer basics to high-level programming, along with information and communications technology management. The program features access to online learning content, official Microsoft course materials, instructor resources and support materials, including lesson plans, software licenses, and professional, industry-recognized certifications. There are more than 10,000 Microsoft IT Academy members in over 160 countries,” the release said.

Joseph Huddle, coordinator of the IT program at Battlefield High School, welcomes his school’s participation in the program.

Read the full story in the Bull Run and Old Bridge Observer newspapers.