In April, South Gwinnett High School hosted its Career Academy Awards, highlighting its five career academies and 13 pathways that students can choose from, including two GCPS Specialty Schools: Grayson High School Technical Education Program and Maxwell High School of Technology. The academies serve as schools within the school that help students focus on a specific career interest. The Career Academy Awards nominating committee selects partners and students who have made an impressionable impact on the school's academy program and its mission through projects. This year's recognitions include 14 awards, with six being awarded to students. The celebration is schoolwide, showcasing the academies and the amazing work of all departments and cluster schools.  
 
"In partnership with the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) team, we know that our Career Academy Awards play a significant role in fostering a positive school environment. Our awards celebrate academic excellence, leadership, and creativity within the academy programs. This event serves as positive reinforcement, encouraging students to continue excelling in their endeavors and showing our partners why their contributions matter. We are also inclusive of our cluster schools, allowing our elementary and middle school students to participate in the celebration. This allows them to look forward to walking through South Gwinnett High School's doors and making a positive impact in Comet Nation," says Career Academy Coach Franchesca Thompson. 
 
In its third year of celebrating excellence in achievement, Piedmont Hospital, a business partner, offered students across all five academies the opportunity to participate in externships, tour and learn more about Piedmont's culinary department, and gain valuable career connections.  
 
"I have known since I was in middle school that I want to be a nurse. That's why I selected the Health and Human Service Academy and poured my heart into being the best in the allied health pathway," says Jasmine, a student and Academy Excellence Award recipient. "I enjoyed learning so much from my teacher and supporting all the extracurricular activities. This award means that I am on the right path."