FERNDALE ? Lawrence Technology University and Ferndale Public Schools next week will launch a University High School to provide early college options and pre-professional focus on preparing students for executive leadership careers in the global automotive and related high-tech industries.
The school’s rigorous, four-year curriculum will focus on developing core skills in science, mathematics, communication, and management that are the foundation for careers in high-tech fields key to Michigan’s economy. Classroom experiences will be enhanced by direct career immersion made possible with industry mentors and Lawrence Tech educators. Specialties will include engineering, design, planning, manufacturing, purchasing, logistics, marketing, sales, and service.
Signing ceremonies are set for Jan. 12. The University High School, a four-year public school to be operated by the Ferndale Public Schools and a tuition-free public school of choice. Advanced students will have opportunities to earn college credit from Lawrence Tech while still in high school. Academically successful students will also be guaranteed admission to the University.
Admission is open to students who reside anywhere in Oakland County or any bordering county. Students will be able to apply for acceptance through Michigan’s Schools of Choice process, and will be selected through a lottery in spring 2005 for admission in grades 9 and 10 next fall.
The project is partially funded through a grant awarded by Michigan Future to Lawrence Tech. Michigan Future supports quality education programs to help prepare high school students for success in today’s highly competitive and technological careers.
University High will be a Ford PAS school, where teachers establish ties with local businesses and the higher education community and can obtain assistance from industry specialists in keeping classroom learning up-to-date and relevant. Teachers gain access to exciting course offerings and innovative teaching methods they can carry into other courses. Teachers also have the opportunity for on-site real-life learning experiences and innovative professional development opportunities.
