MANSFIELD ISD TO LAUNCH P-TECH ACADEMY AT SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL IN ARLINGTON
New opportunities are coming for Mansfield ISD high school students who want to pursue a career in computer programming and software development . A new P-TECH ( Pathways in Technology Early College High Schools ) academy will open at Summit High School in Arlington in August 2024 .
In a P-TECH program , students earn a high school diploma , an industry-recognized associate degree , and gain relevant work experience in a growing field . Summit High School ’ s P-TECH Academy will open with an inaugural class of 50 freshmen . The students will attend the school-within-aschool for their entire high school career and will benefit from guidance and real-world instruction with business partner , Mouser Electronics .
Students will study computer science and have an opportunity to earn an industry-based certification ( PCEP-Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer ) and possible Level 1 Certificate through Tarrant County College ( Information Technology : Programming I ). These credentials are highly regarded in the information technology industry and can lead to a junior programming career with a starting salary of $ 55,000 a year straight out of high school .
“ This is an exciting opportunity for our students , and it fits with our Vision 2030 guiding statement that MISD is preparing students to graduate career ready ,” said superintendent of schools Dr . Kimberley Cantu . “ We are also fortunate to have a business partner like Mouser Electronics that is supporting our students as they ’ re learning and potentially providing jobs when they graduate .”
The academy ’ s P-TECH courses will be taught by Summit High School staff and Tarrant County College instructors . Students will also gain real-world experience from Mouser Electronics who will provide facility visits , guest speakers and internships .