Who is it for?

Any student enrolled or eligible for enrollment in Cabarrus County Schools may complete the Program Choice application for assignment to a Program Choice program.

Is AOEA only for students interested in engenering careers?

No. While many academy students are interested Engineering careers, the skills students learn in AOEA are transferable to all career paths.

 How are students admitted?

Any student enrolled or eligible for enrollment in Cabarrus County Schools may complete a Program Choice application for assignment to a Program Choice program.  

Can my student take honors or AP classes in AOEA?

Yes. In core AOEA classes, such as English, Social Studies, Math, and Science, students will be in combined classes of academic and honors, depending on what level they are recommended for. Teachers will differentiate assessments for honor levels.  

Can my student take other elective courses?

Yes. While engineering courses are required in AOEA in the four years, students still have the opportunity to take many other elective courses. AOEA engineering courses do meet the graduation requirement.

 Is AOEA more difficult?

No. All courses follow the NC standard course of study. What will be different is the integration of engineering into core classes, interdisciplinary approach/teaching, and project-based learning. Work-based learning and 21st Century Skills are also included in AOEA courses. AOEA students will have many projects that involve working in teams and giving presentations. Academy students are required to take at least one academy course each year to meet their certification requirements.

Can an AOEA student still participate in athletics or clubs?

Yes. AOEA students may participate in athletics and clubs. 

Can my student drop out of AOEA?

We expect students and their parents/guardians to seriously consider their decision to enroll because we expect a four-year commitment to the program’s responsibilities and requirements.

Most of the time, conflicts with a student’s obligations can be worked out to allow students to meet their goals and stay in the program. If the conflict cannot be resolved, the student must meet with their academy coordinator to discuss the possible withdrawal. Parents must email Program Choice at programchoice@cabarrus.k12.nc.us to complete the withdrawal process. The decision to drop will be made on a case-by-case basis.