Marietta City Schools and KSU Partner for Fast Start Academy

Marietta City Schools announced it has strengthened its partnership with Kennesaw State University by offering Marietta High School seniors and recent graduates an opportunity to participate in The Fast Start Academy, a summer apprenticeship at KSU.

For four weeks, students participated in a literacy summer camp for Marietta elementary school students, hosted on the KSU campus. This program allowed the high school seniors to gain hands-on experience by shadowing KSU education students in a real classroom environment. The apprentices supported the KSU students while interacting directly with young learners, providing a blend of mentorship and practical experience.

This paid apprenticeship not only boosted the participants' summer earnings but also offered them direct work experience in the field of education, according to the school district. It also eased their transition from high school to college by making higher education more accessible and fostering near-peer relationships with KSU students pursuing education careers.

Looking ahead, KSU will expand this initiative with a student teaching residency program set to begin fall 2024, further solidifying its dedication to developing future educators.