Academy to have nine graduates

The Rocket Academy continues to develop.

Cedar Grove-Belgium’s charter high school that focuses on skilled trades and is open to juniors and seniors from all districts will have nine graduates in the Class of 2025, Academy Director David Friend told the School Board last week.

The Academy had two graduates last year in its inaugural year. Next year, Friend said, he expects to have at least 20 grads and the school is still accepting students.

“We might be plus 30,” he said.

This year, students will have earned between 192 and 196 dual credits between high school and Lakeshore Technical College, Friend said. Students also earned 90 industry-recognized credentials.

“We’re pretty proud of that. I know some of those kids are bringing those up when they’re interviewing for jobs. So that’s kind of cool to hear that feedback,” he said.

This month, a new course called workplace skills started that will be required for every new student before they can use the lab area. The class covers topics such as safety, sanitation and machine operations, Friend said.

This week, a trainer was scheduled to come to certify students in gas lines.

“Another good skill, another good credential those kids will be able to take with them,” Friend said.

The Academy on Tuesday hosted the Wisconsin Economic Development and the Department of Workforce Development, along with officials from Ozaukee, Washington, Waukesha and Sheboygan counties.

“It’s kind of designed so people can see firsthand what we’re offering, where we hope to grow and just to kind of expand our networks,” Friend said. “Hopefully, they’ll take it back and share it with their greater councils and kind of generate some more connections.”

Landscape work began on the Academy’s new facility in Belgium. Weeds were taken out and shrubs and trees were planted, Friend said.