Schools
Utica Community Schools is one of 35 national districts honored for innovation
Center for Science and Industry earns District of Distinction honor
Utica Community Schools is among only 35 school districts honored nationally for providing innovative programs that have a direct impact on student success.
The district’s Utica Center for Science and Industry has earned a “District of Distinction” award from the national District Administration magazine.
“With its location in the heart of Michigan’s automotive center, the Utica Center for Science and Industry is uniquely positioned to give students real world connections to the high-tech jobs of the future,” said Superintendent Dr. Christine Johns. “Through active partnerships with Ford Motor Co., industry leaders like FANUC America, and other major high-tech companies, UCSI students are a step ahead in receiving the skills businesses are seeking from today’s graduates.”
Opened in 2008, UCSI is an innovative blend of rigorous academics with real world application. It works closely with industry to ensure the development of skills current employers are seeking for high-paying, high-tech jobs.
The half-day UCSI program prepares students for postsecondary experiences in the fields of engineering technology, mechatronics (‘smart’ robotics systems) and multimedia production.
More than 90 percent of UCSI graduating seniors attain workplace certifications and 98 percent pursue postsecondary education. Early college and dual enrollment opportunities enable students to complete college credits in high school.
The Utica Center for Science and Industry has received state and national recognition for the effectiveness to meet the skills needs of high-tech employers.
The program has been honored by Automation Alley, Michigan Association of School Boards and the Michigan Association of School Administrators.
It was featured by NBC News in its national Education Nation initiative (Michigan high school prepares students for the real world - and real high-tech jobs).
The Districts of Distinction honors are awarded by a team of District Administration’s editors. Nominees are ranked on the clarity of a district’s challenge, how innovative or homegrown the solution was, and how strong the results were in terms of data and newsworthiness.
The honored programs were also selected based on their ability to be replicated in other communities with similar challenges.
