Lancaster High School’s Academy of Finance was recognized with the highest level honor from NAF for its work preparing students for success in college and their future careers. The Katherine Blasik Distinguished level recognition is given based on an annual assessment, with NAF stating that only a select few organizations receive the honor.
“This recognition is a testament to all those who help make our academy a success,” said Scott Dixon, the academy’s director. “It’s the collaboration of the Lancaster community, district, parents, alum and students who provide numerous opportunities for our students to succeed and therefore allow us to have been recognized with this award again this year.”
Lancaster High School Academy of Finance is part of NAF, a national education non-profit, which supports high school students’ efforts to be future ready. The academy program spans three years’ worth of industry validated curriculum, project-based learning and a robust work-based learning program which culminates with an 80-hour paid internship. Students in the program said their time in the academy has helped them prepare for their future studies.
“It’s a really unique experience, and all of the things I’ve learned here are coming with me when I go to college,” said Sabrina Sugg, a LHS senior who is the president of the academy.
As a participant in the Academy of Finance, students have the opportunity to earn Microsoft Certification as well as the Career and Technical Education Certification on their Regents or Advanced Regents diploma. In addition to those career credentials, students, on average, graduate from the Lancaster High School Academy of Finance with 15 transferable SUNY college credits.
“Entering college and future careers, this experience has made things a lot more accessible,” said Addyson Buechi, a LHS senior who serves as the academy’s secretary. “It’s easier knowing I’ve accomplished things I didn’t know I could.”
More information about the academy can be found at https://www.lancasterschools.org/Page/15687.
