Strong year for Career and College Academy with more growth next year

Students attending Bloomington Career and College Academy (BCCA) earned more than 1,400 college credits and dozens of professional certificates. These figures cap off a successful eighth year for the program, which gives students opportunities to explore or begin a career path while in high school. 

The program continues to grow with a large offering of pathways for students, including Cosmetology, Healthcare, Information Technology (IT), Criminal Justice, Auto Technology, Motion Control, and Small Engines. BCCA is adding a new Fire Science pathway next school year.

Nearly 300 students enrolled in 38 classes during the 2022-23 school year. Students learn from college instructors, earn college credit for free, and earn high school STEM or elective credit. BCCA students typically earn three to twelve college credits in any given trimester. Some students in the IT pathway went above and beyond to earn 24 credits this year.

Students have the ability to earn industry-recognized certifications, which can lead to entry-level jobs with no college debt. Students earned 75 certificates during the first two trimesters, and will continue taking certification exams this summer.

“BCCA is an excellent option for students interested in hands-on, career-focused classes. It is a program that keeps growing in enrollment. The number of students who requested BCCA courses for next school year has already surpassed this year,” said Gary Kressin, BCCA director.

Bloomington Public Schools is proud of its partnerships with Normandale Community College and Hennepin Technical College to provide opportunities to help students begin preparing for their careers while still in high school.