SouthArk program to offer computer technology certifications to high school students

Parkers Chapel and Smackover-Norphlet high school students have the opportunity to earn graduate certifications in three areas of computer technology thanks to South Arkansas Community College’s Futures in Information Technology (FIT) program.

Students will be able to take courses like Mobile Apps for Android, Windows Operating System, Windows Server, Principles of Information Assurance, IT Essentials, Visual Basic and Networking Fundamentals.

The certificates of proficiency available for students to earn are in networking, computer support and computer science. Students who attain multiple certifications will be able to install software, run virus scans, upgrade a computer’s hardware, create a local network and program software using at least one programming language, according to a news release from SouthArk.

The program is for high school juniors and seniors, though sophomores will be able to participate with special permission from their principal or the district superintendent. Students must possess a grade-point average of at least 2.0 and have scored at least a 19 on the Reading portion of the ACT. SouthArk offers a placement exam for students who have not taken the ACT year-round.

Students should work with their counselors when drawing up their schedules for the 20182019 school year to enroll in the program. They will need to complete a college admission packet that can be obtained from their counselors. There may be required course fees depending on local school district policies.

For more information, contact the FIT grant career coach Cathy Harrell at charrell@southark.edu or 870-864-8479.