Among the significant initiatives undertaken by the port in the Coastal Bend region, there is some thrilling news for a CCISD school, as the Port of Corpus Christi awarded Solomon Coles High School a $100,000 grant.
RELATED: Coastal Bend schools adapt to the state-wide phone restriction
The financial support will introduce state-of-the-art technology to Solomon Coles, and we're referring to highly sophisticated tools. This includes a computer lab for analyzing geographic data, drones, cybersecurity, and video production, as well as a second new laboratory designed to assist adult learners in obtaining their high school diplomas, offering students various new areas to investigate.
Rosaura Bailey, the Director of Community Relations at the Port of Corpus Christi, stated, 'The port has a long history of commitment to education.'
Bailey stated that the team developed the Corpus Christi Education Grants to have a more significant effect on nearby K-12 schools.
This year, the port evaluated more than seventy candidates and selected two recipients.
"We're examining technology that surpasses what a conventional high school could provide," Bailey stated.
One of these is Solomon Coles High School, a different type of school that offers students with special needs an opportunity to earn a high school diploma.
"Over 1,700 students who have left school are now between the ages of 21 and 26, and helping them return to finish their high school education has been incredibly rewarding," said Jessica Albert, principal at Solomon Coles.
But what makes technology the particular area of interest?
"Technology is the future, and our students have very little experience with the technological world; in fact, they have limited exposure to various careers, as there is a lack of understanding about what opportunities are available to them," Albert said.
The head mentioned that locals are already demonstrating enthusiasm.
"We have many children here who are very smart but haven't adapted well to a typical school environment," said Gary Leary, Instructional Technology Chair at Solomon Coles.
Leary revealed the upcoming laboratory where the magic will take place.
"My plan is to cover this wall here and the one behind you. These will be high-end computers with dual monitors, allowing us to run GIS programs and handle cybersecurity tasks," Leary said.
The institution is also collaborating with Del Mar College and the Island University, creating a connection between high school and higher education.
Bailey thinks that Solomon Coles' research is in line with the port's initiatives, since the grant is designed to expose students to career opportunities that promote regional development.
"We are aware that the customers in the field require qualified professionals in this area, and these professionals should be sourced locally. They should be from Corpus Christi," Bailey stated.
They are expecting their new technology and laboratories to be operational in January. Students who are interested in their programs are advised to apply through the online portal.here at the school's official website.
More from 3NEWS on KIIITV.com:
- Another falls by the wayside: Corpus Christi's desalination plant could become part of the city's expanding list of unsuccessful initiatives.
- ThreeCCPD officers enter a bar to arrest you, and they are all connected.
- The individual at the window: honoring Jesse Ruiz, Sr.
- Texas' redistricting map ignites discussion, potentially altering Nueces County's influence in Congress
- TROPICAL UPDATE: Tropical Storm Dexter has developed in the Atlantic and is moving away from the United States.
- Remove the old bridge, introduce the new one
- A well-known nightclub in the city center is expanding, possibly becoming one of the largest in the area.
Join our YouTube channelfor your daily news and special in-depth interviews.
Do you have a news tip? Share three!
Email tell3@kiiitv.comTherefore, we can contact you regarding your story if we have any questions or require additional details. We understand that some stories may be delicate. Please let us know if you wish to stay anonymous.