College and Career Academy officially opens in Catoosa County

CATOOSA COUNTY, Ga (WDEF) – Neighbors in Catoosa County are celebrating!  The community unveiled its new school Thursday morning, The College and Career Academy. 

“We have about 240 businesspeople that are here today to hear Superintendent Chance Nix talk about the school system, about the College and Career Academy, and the teachers as well as the students,” said Amy Jackson, CEO, Catoosa Chamber of Commerce. “And the wonderful things that are going on in our community.”

Members of the Catoosa Chamber of Commerce got to tour the new school. 

Local leaders have been working on this project for more than 8 years.  

“We received a $3 million grant about three years ago, and the building has been under construction for two years,” said Jackson. “On August the seventh the first group of students, about 300 students walked through the door of The College and Career Academy.”

Superintendent Charles Nix believes that when students connect with business owners, they get a head start on their career. 

“When we surveyed folks, we asked them what jobs are most needed in our community, so we took those surveys and now they are the pathways we offer at the College and Career Academy,” said Superintendent of Catoosa County School, Charles Nix. “When our kids come out, there are jobs are waiting for them. And these business owners are fighting over our kids, and we love it because it’s a win, win situation.” 

The College and Career Academy offers courses like welding, law enforcement, and cyber security. 

Students can also take dual enrollment courses with Georgia Northwestern and Dalton State. 

“The kids can take advantage of free college. It is transferable and they can also take advantage of the career courses that we offer. The incredible thing is that there is something in that career academy for every single kid,” Nix concluded.