View as Webpage

The Academies of Louisville exhibit schools' commitment to preparing students for graduationand beyond.

Postsecondary Readiness (PSR) signifies a student's readiness to transition successfully to their next educational or career step. For the 2023-24 school year, 78% of Academies of Louisville students achieved PSR, a 4% increase from the previous year. By focusing on real-world skills and experiences, the Academies of Louisville continue to play a crucial role in preparing students for success beyond high school.


Recent data from the Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA) shows that Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) as a whole has seen significant improvements in both graduation and postsecondary readiness rates. For the 2023-2024 graduating class, the average graduation rate for JCPS increased substantially to 88.2%, with the gap between Black and white students narrowing to just 0.5%. The average graduation rate for Black students is at an all-time high of 88.9%. These improvements underscore the positive impact of initiatives like the Academies of Louisville in preparing students for success beyond high school.


Check out more of JCPS's KSA results.


Jefferstown High School Provides Full-Circle Support from Grades 9 to 12

JCPS's commitment to success beyond graduation was on full display at Jeffersontown High School on Oct. 9, when a class of over 300 freshmen joined the school's commitment to graduate pledge. Meanwhile, UofL admissions officers were meeting one-on-one with students to discuss their prospects for post-secondary education. Check out Jeffersontown High School's Commitment to Graduate ceremony.

Thanks to Rachelle Wood, Academy Coach at the Academy @ Shawnee, for this infographic!


Postsecondary Readiness


PSR indicates a student's preparedness to successfully transition to their next educational or career step after high school. It encompasses the knowledge, skills, and personal qualities needed for success in college, vocational training, or entry-level jobs. PSR goes beyond just academic achievement; it also considers critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and social skills. By focusing on PSR, schools aim to ensure that students are not only ready to graduate but also equipped to thrive in their chosen paths after high school.



Ballard's Senior Advisory Day


Ballard High School's inaugural Senior Advisory Day provided the Class of 2025 with valuable insights into post-secondary options, featuring 14 specialized breakout sessions tailored to address their interests and concerns. Facilitated by educators and community partners, the sessions aimed to enhance postsecondary readiness by equipping seniors with essential knowledge for their future endeavors.


Read the full article about the event.

Student Spotlight

Brazing a Bright Future:

Cody Payne's Journey from

Valley HS to KCC Manufacturing


As graduation approached this spring, Cody Payne confidently chose to pursue a hands-on career in HVAC, distinguishing himself among his peers who faced uncertainty about their futures. His journey began at Valley High School in the Business and Industry Academy, where he acquired essential skills that led him to secure a full-time position at KCC Manufacturing immediately after graduation. “What I learned at Valley is what I do now,” Cody states, emphasizing the direct impact of his education on his professional life.


Cody's success is attributed to the mentorship of educators like Mr. Greg Elsler and Mr. John Spiva, who guided him through vital industry certifications. Their support and hands-on experiences during his co-op allowed Cody to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. As he steps into his full-time role on the refrigeration line, Cody exemplifies how educational partnerships can create clear pathways to rewarding careers, setting a strong foundation for his future.


Read the full article: Learn about Cody's path from high school to a successful career in HVAC at KCC Manufacturing.

Volunteers Needed: Share your career journey with Seneca Students


Seneca High School is hosting a two-day career showcase. They are looking for professionals who can share their experiences, offer some insight into what this career is like, and ignite their interest in different careers. Join us in shaping the future by sharing your company's insights and career pathways with over 300 high school students eager to explore their next steps.


Sign up now to inspire the next generation and guide them toward successful careers in your industry!

Humana IT4U Empowers Waggener Students with Real-World Tech Experience


Humana's partnership with Waggener High School has created a successful framework for providing students with real-world exposure to potential career paths in IT. This collaboration, led by Senior IT Project Manager Justin Morris and Academy Coach Chesney Kirchner, facilitates shadow days that allow students to experience professional environments and gain valuable insights into the tech industry.


Recently, four ambitious seniors participated in an immersive experience at Humana's IT4U help desk, where they engaged in hands-on challenges that bridged classroom learning with practical application. During this event, students tackled the repair of a malfunctioning laptop, successfully replacing components and solving technical issues. This specific experience not only enhanced their problem-solving skills but also underscored Humana's commitment to empowering the next generation of IT professionals.


Read the full article: Discover how Humana is preparing the next generation of IT professionals.

Metro Cybersecurity


Students from Fairdale High School's cybersecurity pathway visited the Louisville Metro Government data center and security operations center.


Watch the video about the industry tour.

And thank you to Deputy Mayor David James for welcoming our students! He explained the importance of a career in public safety and gave a clear vision of the possible futures of our students.

Connecting Communities: Ashley Conway's Mission at Jeffersontown High School


As Academy Coach at Jeffersontown High School, Ashley Conway has transformed her alma mater into a vibrant hub of community engagement and career preparation. Her journey from banking to education led her back to the halls where she once studied, now as a catalyst for change. Conway's innovative teaching approach, including hands-on experiences like creating cave paintings and Renaissance dancing, reflects her belief that engaged students are successful learners.


Conway's dedication to fostering diversity and strong community ties is evident in her work. She actively promotes opportunities for underrepresented groups in various fields and collaborates with local businesses to create real-world experiences for students. Her partnership with companies like Lantech exemplifies her commitment to preparing students for life after graduation. Through Conway's efforts, Jeffersontown High has become a launchpad for future careers and a place where students discover their potential, making it, in her words, "the best kept secret in the community."

Read the full article: Learn about Mrs. Conway's dedication to her students and her community.

Fern Creek High School Welcomes Congressman Morgan McGarvey


Congressman McGarvey provided students with an insightful glimpse into the workings of Congress while also witnessing the exciting developments at FCHS, including the impactful Academies of Louisville.


Read the full article.

Seneca High School Has the Only Urban Agriculture Program in KY


As WLKY recently featured, Seneca High School hosts an unique Urban Agriculture focus that is preparing students for various careers outside of traditional farming. Students take rigorous classes and receive hands-on experience with plants and animals in their classes. These RedHawks are soaring to success!


Watch JCPS's video of this interactive pathway.


Atherton Student Interviews JCPS Superintendent


Atherton High School Media Arts Academy student Bianca Phoenix recently interviewed Dr. Pollio. He commended her skills and foresees her bright future as a political reporter.


Check out Dr. Pollio's post.

  • AMIST at U of L
  • Wyatt, Tarrant and Combs
  • Cornerstone Engineering, Inc.
  • YMCA Southeast
  • Haymarket
  • ElderServe
  • Wright Implement
  • Biscuit Belly
  • Putman XR Consulting
  • Kroger
  • Kizan
  • Massage Envy
  • Hatfield Media
  • ValuMarket


  • National Center for Families Learning
  • US Navy Recruiters
  • Team Travel Source
  • Altec Industries
  • UL College of Education and Human Development
  • Good Vibes Garage
  • Louisville Fire Department
  • KCC
  • Turn Point Services
  • KPFF
  • IEC


Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment


Jefferson County Public Schools and Jefferson Community & Technical College are conducting a Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment to ensure our career pathways meet community needs. We invite you to participate in a virtual meeting on Wednesday, October 30th, from 8:30 to 10:00 AM.


Please complete this form by Friday, October 25th, to join us and help shape the future of our programs!

SPREAD THE WORD AND CONNECT WITH US

SUBSCRIBE
Facebook  Instagram  YouTube  Web

The Academies of Louisville are powered by: