The Electronic Arts Academy is a small school-within-a-school at Sequoia High. Students enroll in the program from 9th grade through the 12th grade. Our funding comes from the State of California as a grant and is matched by the school district and our industry partners. This allows us to keep our class size at an average of 25 students, to include technological skills and hands on experience in our curriculum, and to provide extra support for students in need.
Teachers in the Academy are also well supported and have time to meet and collaborate. Teachers have the opportunity to plan cross-curricular, technology rich projects as well as identify students who need extra help in taking themselves to the next level. Together we pool our resources to enhance learning and challenge our students. In the Academy, there is no room to just coast.
Our focus is to provide students with a technology infused, personalized learning experience while preparing them for college and a job in technology. We offer direct career pathways, extra support and high expectations all in a fun learning environment.
The Academy provides a rigorous academic experience that focuses on helping students complete the A-G college requirements. In addition to the Academy core classes, English, Science and Social Studies, students are required to take a Technology elective. This elective will vary each year depending on the student’s career path or college focus. Students also have the opportunity to enroll in an SAT preparation course at no cost.
College credit through Canada College is available for all technology classes taught in the Academy. In addition, students are encouraged and assisted in taking advanced classes in their pathway at Cañada College.
In today’s world, technology is the key to a successful career in any field. All students learn skills that will prepare them for jobs in the real world. During their junior year, students participate in the Mentor Program. Here students are paired with a professional who works in Silicon Valley. Through a series of structured activities such as job shadowing, a career faire, resume writing, and mock interviews, students learn job skills and business etiquette from professionals in the real world.