• Image of a beach in the Dominican Republic

     

    National Academy Foundation (NAF)

    NAF consists of career-themed Academies that are organized as small learning communities.  Today there are more than 529 career Academies in 40 states and the District of Columbia. NAF’s Academies include: Academy of Finance, Academy of Hospitality & Tourism (AOHT), Academy of Information Technology, and Academy of Engineering.  NAF connects young people to role models, mentors, and teachers who are fully invested in students' education and career success.  

     

    Mission Statement 

    AOHT began at Smithfield Selma High School in the 2019-20 school year in collaboration with general History course classes.  The primary goal was/is to expose high school students to the wide variety of opportunities and career paths in hospitality and tourism, one of the world’s largest industries. 

     

    Benefits/Program Features

    College Prep

    Dual Enrollment

    Paid Internships

    Outreach Programs

    Scholarships

    Industry Speakers

    Industry Mentors

    Personalized Portfolios

    Business Cards

    Advisory Board

    Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

    Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA)

     

    Course Outline

     

    Grade 9

    Placed in Introductory Academy classes 

    Develop resumes and portfolio 

    Explore local businesses and attractions

     

    Grade 10

    Enroll in Enterprise (ENT) and Event Planning

    Continue in Core classes

    Networking with industry professionals

     

    Grade 11

    Internship preparation begins

    Finalize portfolios

    Tweak technology skills

    Shadow industry professionals during Shawdowship Day

    Conduct mock interviews

     

    Grade 12

    Create a PPP/E-Book Internship

    Present findings to students in grades 9-11

    Begin to apply for scholarships and post secondary institutions

    Participate in a field study

    AOHT Graduation is conducted in May