Teachers learn software certification testing curriculum

ISHPEMING TOWNSHIP — The tables were turned for Career Technical Education Teachers this week in Ishpeming Township.

Teachers from around Michigan gathered at Westwood High School to learn the Microsoft IT Academy curriculum so they can pass it along to their students. Thanks to a $3.9 million State appropriation, 300 high schools are being given the opportunity to offer their students software certification testing.

“Michigan Business Education Association teamed with the State Department to become the training vehicle to get this program out into our educational communities,” said MBEA President Colleen Webb.

“We’re preparing teachers to provide the opportunity for students to become certified in Microsoft Office specialist products,” said Westwood High School Business Teacher Ronalyn Arseneau.

Participating schools are given 500 certification tests as well as Microsoft Office software licenses to assist in instruction and testing.

Arseneau added: “It’s really a great boon to our school districts to receive these through this State grant.”

Learning Office software skills can benefit students regardless of their chosen career path.

“As high school students, they can leave high school with industry certifications, which will command a higher wage for them if they go into the job market, and advanced skills in the college classrooms,” said Webb.

This week’s training was the second of its kind to be held this summer in Michigan. Organizers hope to be able to do this again next year.