A primary goal of public education is preparing the next generation for entering the workforce. Technology is now incorporated into nearly every job sector. Now more than ever schools are working to build technology education into the curriculum for students. To support high schools, Westwood partners with school districts and non-profit organizations in our communities to supplement technology equipment and teaching needs.
Inspiring young artists to better themselves and their communities
BlackBook Sessions is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering and inspiring young, talented minds. The organization is dedicated to helping kids and teens develop their artistic skills and build confidence. Westwood partners with BlackBook Sessions by hosting the events on our campuses where inspiring young artist can participate in a series of participatory workshops and art demonstrations by well-known artists. Artists 9-25 years of age are also invited to bring their best work to a judged contest where prizes are awarded in three age categories (9-13; 14-17; and 18-25). Westwood also supports these artists by offering The Directors Choice award winner and the winner of the 18-25 year old category an opportunity to receive a scholarship from the college’s school of design’s visual communications program. This scholarship is funded by both BlackBook Sessions and Westwood College. To check out the events go to Facebook or watch these videos on YouTube: BlackBook Sessions #9 and BlackBook Sessions #9 Graffiti Wall
Technology Equipment Donation and Student Installations
Westwood College and the college’s information technology (IT) students are showing how a private organization can make a difference at public high schools. In Dallas at Skyline High School – DISD and in Denver at Thomas Jefferson High School – DPS, Westwood has made technology donations including Netbooks, portable computer carts and SMART Boards. These much needed supplies will be used throughout the schools by staff and students. The program benefits the public schools, but also provides Westwood IT students the opportunity to bring the education they are learning in labs and the classroom into a real-world environment.
Preparing High School Students with Work-Ready Tech Skills
Westwood partners with KidsTek inc., a Denver non-profit organization, to provide Denver Public School students at North High School and High Tech Early College technology equipment, faculty expertise and classroom support. The courses provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable technology education, work-ready skills and earn industry-related certifications (A+, CCENT, CCNA) through the Cisco Academy Curriculum. Students who pass the courses can also earn college credit toward an Information Technology degree at Westwood College. The availability of this certification program for high school students ensures they will graduate with the skills to earn an income or continue on to college with college credits already complete to put toward a degree.