Lynwood Unified Introduces Microsoft IT Academy

The following is an official announcement from the Lynwood Unified School District (LUSD):

The Lynwood Unified School District is introducing the Microsoft IT Academy to several K-12 and adult school campuses in the 2013-14 school year to give students a competitive edge in today’s job market or the next step in their academic careers.

By offering specialized courses taught by qualified instructors, Lynwood Unified is creating a career pathway in which students can earn Microsoft certifications that will lead them to higher education opportunities, provide them with fundamental technological skills and the ability to obtain positions within information technology (IT), business and other technical career fields.

“We’re incorporating innovative technological programs into our curriculum in order to respond to the educational needs of our students in today’s society,” LUSD Superintendent Paul Gothold said. “Through these courses, the children and adults of our community will obtain important skills while earning certificates that prove their proficiency as they progress in their education or apply for jobs.”

The exciting new program begins this fall when students at Cesar Chavez Middle School, Lynwood Middle School, Firebaugh High School and the Lynwood Community Adult School will have the opportunity to begin taking courses to become certified as specialists in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

The District plans to greatly expand those certifications so that students can become certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist, Microsoft Technology Associate and Microsoft Solutions Associate – all of which will help students stand out on college, internship and job applications.

After completing courses each semester, K-12 students will be able to take certification tests free of cost. However, adult school students will be required to pay a fee for the exams. Students may also earn college credit for the successful completion of these courses.

The goal is to create a path beginning in middle school that continues to advance students’ technological skills and abilities. Lynwood Unified employees will also be invited to earn the certifications to increase their technology proficiency.

“This is just the beginning of something very exciting in the Lynwood Unified School District,” said LUSD Board of Education President Maria G. Lopez. “We are dedicated to expanding the certifications we offer and introducing it to more schools in our community. I’m extremely proud that we’re providing our students with hands-on experience and cutting-edge instruction that will no doubt benefit their growth in the future.”

The certifications can be helpful in landing professional jobs in tech support and general administrative, office and clerical positions. The coursework will also provide students with career exploration opportunities while serving as a catalyst for economic growth in the Lynwood community.   

Currently, there are more than 12,000 Microsoft IT Academy members in more than 130 countries.