Opening this August, the new Christian County High School will serve 2,000 students through a specialized academy model designed to expand career and learning paths.
Among those is The Academy of Agriculture & Skilled Trades, which was highlighted during Tuesday’s meeting of the Christian County Agribusiness Association.
During the presentation, members heard from Superintendent Chris Bentzel, Executive Principal Ken Carver, and Academy Principal Cindy Campbell.
While she currently serves as the Head Principal for Hopkinsville High School, Campbell is excited to bring her nearly 30 years of education experience to the role.
Campbell added that students at both Hopkinsville and Christian County High Schools received email notifications last Friday regarding their academy placements. Of the 375 students enrolled in the Academy of Agriculture & Skilled Trades as of Tuesday, 233 have chosen agriculture-related pathways.
Campbell said as a farmer’s wife, she has a vested interest in the academy.
Beyond the Academy of Freshman Success, students have the opportunity to earn professional certifications, enabling them to launch their careers straight out of high school.
According to Superintendent Bentzel, the academy model ensures students are well-positioned for comprehensive success both academically and personally.
During the program, Christian County Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam warned that if local agricultural businesses do not actively engage with this initiative, other sectors will recruit these students, ultimately dealing a blow to the local ag industry.
