Mount Vernon Schools

Mount Vernon High School is one of 63 Washington high schools selected to pilot the Microsoft IT Academy Program for the 2011-2012 school year.  This academy, which consists of Web-based instruction, includes topics ranging from computer basics to high-level programming.  Students will have the opportunity to get hands-on experience and certification in a number of Microsoft products, such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint, as well as advanced topics, including programming, Web development and database development.  Once students have completed the Microsoft IT Academy training, they can become certified in their areas of study to earn industry-recognized Microsoft Office Specialist, Microsoft Technology Associate or Microsoft Certified Professional certifications. These credentials can help give students an edge in today’s competitive job market.  The district's tech department has been busy upgrading labs in the Career and Technical Education Department to run the latest version of the operating system and software and to connect students to the e-learning courses.  Teachers and faculty are participating in training to support their students.Washington is the second state in the U.S. to implement the Microsoft IT Academy program state wide.  North Carolina piloted high schools in 29 counties during the 2010-2011 school year and expanded the program to the entire state for the current school year. For more information about the Academy, contact Ryan Beatty at Mount Vernon High School:  rbeatty@mv.k12.wa.us.  For more information about technology support, contact Ernie Rinn in the tech department: erinn@mv.k12.wa.us.