John Uesseler/Empower College and Career Center of Jackson County
To support public schools and students, Georgia taxpayers have the opportunity to donate to the Public Education Advancing Change (PEACH) tax credit and receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit. Donated funds are directed toward innovation in Georgia public schools, with a specific focus on the lowest-performing 5 percent of schools. Schools and school districts have the opportunity to apply for grant funds for projects they propose through the Georgia Foundation for Public Education (GFPE).
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The Empower College & Career Center (EmpowerC3) is an educational partnership with businesses in Jackson County and the surrounding area. The Empower Center engages students in career relevant learning experiences. Through partnerships with business and industry, higher education and our community, students work toward goals that help them reach their college and career objectives. Some of these goals include completing pathways and earning credentials.
EmpowerC3 provides a variety of high-tech and academic opportunities as part of the high school experience. Students can work toward associate’s degrees through the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia while earning their high school diplomas, qualifying them immediately for a variety of professional careers and post-secondary opportunities. Parents of students participating in dual enrollment will save up to two years of post-secondary tuition.
Students will leave high school with authentic experiences that will help them define and refine their choices about college, careers, or the military. EmpowerC3 will provide a continuum of work-based learning experiences, internship possibilities, and a pervasive use of science, math, technology and engineering within the classroom curriculum.
The ultimate goal for every EmpowerC3 student is to graduate prepared for a successful career in an ever-changing world. Established high school programs and dual-enrollment programs offered through partnerships with the University of North Georgia and Lanier Technical College will allow EmpowerC3 to provide high-demand skills for high school students and adults from Jackson County and the surrounding areas. Empower College and Career Center will provide post-baccalaureate opportunities for individuals seeking new skills or a career change after earning a college degree. Students will engage in authentic, integrated, work-based, and service-learning experiences that simulate the professional environment.
