CSX-Sponsored Effort Helps Prepare Jacksonville Students for Success

CSX is partnering with Communities In Schools in three Duval County Career Academies through an in-school program that helps prepare at-risk students for future careers. The program targets the 'top half of the bottom half' of the student population, those who are at risk of academic failure and/or dropping out.

The students who participate in the program include those who score low on the FCAT and those who have to balance caring for families and part-time jobs.

The program offers programs in Cosmetology, Health, Construction, Public Safety, Fire/Rescue, Aviation, Auto, Childcare, Communications, Culinary and IT.

The students who participate in the program include those who score low on the FCAT and those who have to balance caring for families and part-time jobs. In some cases, the program has actually helped provide family support and health insurance to help students focus on school.

Statistics kept by the State of Florida show that 87.8% of program participants at least 19 years old in 1997 are currently employed or in trade school.