Community Support

Unprecedented Community Support

THINC College & Career Academy is propelled forward thanks to strong partnerships between the local school system, business and industry, community organizations, parents and students.

Community Support

Early in the planning phases, an unprecedented 108-member steering committee was formed to help guide planning and strategy. Representing all areas and communities of Troup County and including all sectors of employment (small, medium and large business), steering committee members developed the following assumptions to guide its work:

  • One-size-fits-all does not work for all high school students.
  • All high school graduates currently are not college or career ready.
  • There are academic achievement gaps.
  • There is a disconnect between high school and college classrooms and workplace.
  • Many students are first generation college students with unique needs.
  • There is a digital divide that further marginalizes low income and underrepresented students.
  • Significant opportunities exist for college credit through dual enrollment programs.
  • There is a lack of knowledge about available jobs in Troup County.
  • There is a lack of awareness of what it takes to be successful in available jobs in Troup County.
  • Talent is migrating out of Troup County post-graduation.
  • Employers have mandated changes in our education delivery system and have indicated a willingness to become partners in the process.

Steering committee members divided in seven work groups to help determine the direction of the Career Academy – Needs Assessment, Curriculum, Facility, Personnel, Business Plan & Fundraising, Marketing and Data & Technology.

Throughout the planning process, hundreds of students, parents, principals and community-minded individuals have participated in focus groups, marketing research and fact-finding sessions.

Many individuals continue to pour their energy into the Career Academy. It’s only through this serious commitment of Troup County that THINC is possible.

Work Groups

How You Can Help

There’s a lot to accomplish as we prepare for our opening. We’d love you on the THINC team, so here’s a few ways you can help:

Talk to your friends and neighbors about THINC. Spread the word that a new, exciting career academy is coming to Troup County.

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

Call or email  CEO, Kathy Carlisle with your questions:  706.681.6561  |  kathy.carlisle@thincacademy.net