Frequently Asked Questions about academies:
#1: Do I have to plan my entire future after freshman year?
Although the academy can help open up pathways to certain careers, the academy focus is truly on teaching life skills for every student through a lens that they are interested in.
The Academy model develops life skills for students regardless of their intentions after high school such as:
I am going to college – Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment (DE) options in all academies. Writing skills, high rigor courses, research, AP capstone courses, and electives are built for post-secondary education.
I am going to work – Academies connect you with community partners that could offer you jobs right out of high school. Hands on training and certifications will give you a competitive advantage.
I plan to become an entrepreneur– Learn business skills throughout all the academies while working with local area business leaders to gain experience.
I want a well-rounded education – The academy does not fill your schedule. There are opportunities for you to experience a variety of electives throughout your high school career.
#2: Will I find a place to belong in Burke’s academies?
The strength of the Academy model is in its teaming. By teaming teachers together, we make sure that NO student falls through the cracks. The teams will support all students and ensure that each individual is encouraged to maximize their potential. Students with common interests work together to create a family environment and support network. From those who need to be challenged to those who need further support, the academies will help students find their place. Be sure to check the "Where do I fit in?" document on the Burke Academies page to see what might be a good fit for you.
#3: Can I still take creative opportunities like Music, Theater, and Art while in an academy?
At Burke, we are building these type of electives INTO the Academy Model. We have a tradition of success in these areas and look to continue that. Furthermore, skills in music composition, confidence in front of an audience, and the ability to create beautiful works are useful skills regardless of your path in life. Studies show that students who engage with the Fine and Performing Arts improve their likelihood of success during and after high school. We will encourage students to explore these opportunities within their academy experience.
#4: Is there an Academy that fits my interest?
Burke has eleven different pathways within our three academies. There is a pathway that matches the interests of every student. Attached is a document that can help students find their place in the academy. This can be shared with parents and students that have questions.
#5: Can I change my academy?
Freshman year is focused on learning about each academy and what they can offer. The freshman seminar class will give all students experience in each of the academies before choosing one. In the event that the student wants to change academies, they may apply to do so after their sophomore year.
#6: Can I find time in my schedule for advanced placement and dual enrolled opportunities?
Burke prides itself as Nebraska's leader in Advanced Placement courses. Even with the extra courses that are part of your academy, you should have no problem choosing AP courses that fit your interest or replace graduation requirements. We understand that accessing these classes is important to many of our families and we will continue to offer them.
#1: Do I have to plan my entire future after freshman year?
Although the academy can help open up pathways to certain careers, the academy focus is truly on teaching life skills for every student through a lens that they are interested in.
The Academy model develops life skills for students regardless of their intentions after high school such as:
I am going to college – Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment (DE) options in all academies. Writing skills, high rigor courses, research, AP capstone courses, and electives are built for post-secondary education.
I am going to work – Academies connect you with community partners that could offer you jobs right out of high school. Hands on training and certifications will give you a competitive advantage.
I plan to become an entrepreneur– Learn business skills throughout all the academies while working with local area business leaders to gain experience.
I want a well-rounded education – The academy does not fill your schedule. There are opportunities for you to experience a variety of electives throughout your high school career.
#2: Will I find a place to belong in Burke’s academies?
The strength of the Academy model is in its teaming. By teaming teachers together, we make sure that NO student falls through the cracks. The teams will support all students and ensure that each individual is encouraged to maximize their potential. Students with common interests work together to create a family environment and support network. From those who need to be challenged to those who need further support, the academies will help students find their place. Be sure to check the "Where do I fit in?" document on the Burke Academies page to see what might be a good fit for you.
#3: Can I still take creative opportunities like Music, Theater, and Art while in an academy?
At Burke, we are building these type of electives INTO the Academy Model. We have a tradition of success in these areas and look to continue that. Furthermore, skills in music composition, confidence in front of an audience, and the ability to create beautiful works are useful skills regardless of your path in life. Studies show that students who engage with the Fine and Performing Arts improve their likelihood of success during and after high school. We will encourage students to explore these opportunities within their academy experience.
#4: Is there an Academy that fits my interest?
Burke has eleven different pathways within our three academies. There is a pathway that matches the interests of every student. Attached is a document that can help students find their place in the academy. This can be shared with parents and students that have questions.
#5: Can I change my academy?
Freshman year is focused on learning about each academy and what they can offer. The freshman seminar class will give all students experience in each of the academies before choosing one. In the event that the student wants to change academies, they may apply to do so after their sophomore year.
#6: Can I find time in my schedule for advanced placement and dual enrolled opportunities?
Burke prides itself as Nebraska's leader in Advanced Placement courses. Even with the extra courses that are part of your academy, you should have no problem choosing AP courses that fit your interest or replace graduation requirements. We understand that accessing these classes is important to many of our families and we will continue to offer them.