4C Heavy Equipment Students Complete Capstone Project at Oxford Construction Site

4C Academy— December 7, 2023— Seven high school seniors preparing for career opportunities at the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) completed their Field Capstone Project for Excavator this Tuesday at Oxford Construction.  The students started the program in the classroom at 4C where they  trained on state-of-the-art heavy equipment simulators to prepare them for the Field Capstone Project which included several skills tests administered by the professionals at Oxford Construction, the Program Partner.  

Steve Burton, Safety Director at the Oxford Construction program shared, “It was a great experience being a part of the capstone project with the 4C Academy.  As a company, we are excited that the students are showing interest in heavy equipment operations.  The students did an excellent job performing real-life tasks as equipment operators during the Capstone visit.  4C has done an outstanding job with the students and we are very excited to be a part of the program.  Throughout the process, each student has shown a great attitude and a willingness to learn.”  

The Heavy Equipment Operator program is relatively new in Georgia and was made possible through partnerships forged by the Georgia Highway Contractors Association, GHCA.  Funding for the program and simulators was obtained though the legislature and GHCA provides annual training for instructors.  GHCA members across the state participate as program partners to provide schools such as 4C with Vision Tours to job sites and provide the equipment and personnel required for students to complete their Capstone Projects.  Local education partners include the 4C Academy, the Dougherty County School System and Albany Technical College.

David Moellering, President/CEO of the GHCA, shared this regarding the program at 4C,  “The Heavy Equipment Operator Program provides a space for students to make lasting connections with industry partners in a way that I have never seen!  Not only that, the students work hard and accomplish great things!  I am always so impressed with the confidence they have when operating a piece of equipment.  The students at 4C were prepared and clearly demonstrated all they have learned this semester!   We look forward to continuing our partnership and are excited about the future of the program at 4C Academy.” 

The students are excited about the program as well.  Nick Gosier, a senior at Monroe High School and the 4C Academy shared, “The heavy equipment program is great and I really liked the challenge.  We all had to earn the opportunity by completing the different modules on the simulator - nothing was given to us.  We felt prepared when we stepped on the real machines.  The excavator was fun to drive and was faster and smoother than the simulator - I can’t wait to get back on a real one.”  Next for the students is the bulldozer module.  

“This is education at its best - when the business community and educators partner to bring relevant opportunities to high school students who are ready to start their careers in high demand career.” says Chris Hatcher, CEO of the 4C Academy.  “‘We appreciate GHCA for pushing this project forward at the state level and can’t thank Oxford Construction enough for making their resources available to students in our community.  What a win, win, win!”

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C Academy Receives Bayer Fund Grant

Albany, Georgia (October 25, 2023) - The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) was chosen by the America’s Farmers Grow Communities Bayer Fund to receive a $5,000 grant used to strengthen local nonprofit organizations that positively impact farming communities across rural America.  

Dedicated to making a difference in rural farming communities, the Grow Communities program has awarded over $65 million to nonprofits, schools, and youth Ag programs across rural America.  The program asks farmers across the country to participate by nominating nonprofit organizations for resources to strengthen their local communities. Last August, a southwest Georgia farmer nominated the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) for the grant.  

Marty McLendon,  President of McLendon Acres and Chairman of the Board of Directors for Flint River Fresh, a non-profit aimed at providing fresh produce in underserved communities, is a lifelong farmer and strong proponent of education.  “When I learned about the America's Farmers Grow Communities Bayer Fund, I immediately thought of the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy as an organization that could put the grant to good use.  They have a growing Agri-Business pathway and are working with students from several southwest Georgia counties to expose them to the many different opportunities in agriculture while preparing the students for their careers," Marty McLendon was excited to share and he is excited to see the Commodore Gardens grow and develop. 

The Commodore Gardens is a three acre space consisting of 40 raised-bed, irrigated garden boxes, an orchard of fruit trees, honey bees, a mobile produce stand and a new 5,400 square foot hydroponics greenhouse.  Although the 4C Academy has been hosting tours of the Commodore Gardens to people in the community for several years, the school plans to invite elementary and middle school students from the Dougherty County School System and other surrounding counties to learn more about agriculture and the role the Commodore Gardens plays in nutrition in the schools. According to the the 4C Academy CEO Chris Hatcher, the Commodore Gardens provides a couple of functions for the school, “Our vision for the Commodore Gardens is not only to teach and prepare our students about agriculture and careers in agriculture, but we also want to expose students at younger ages, along with our community,  to agriculture so that they can understand its importance to our region and our society as a whole.  This garden does just that. The Grow Communities grant will help us with our vision to create an incredible outdoor classroom for young and adult learners..” 

To serve as a companion to the agribusiness class, Willow and Olivia, two Nigerian dwarf goats are now permanent residents of the 4C Academy. The newest additions to the 4C family have done a great job eating down plenty of shrubs and bushes. They will continue to serve as a learning opportunity for the children and people of the community who will visit the garden. Agribusiness students are learning to care for these low-maintenance farm animals. “The goats are great companions and are very interactive with the students, ” says Megan Verner, 4C Academy Agribusiness Instructor.

Willow and Olivia will be an exciting, new element for the Commodore Gardens. 4C. Additional updates include a self-guided tour with signs that contain QR codes that provide information on the crops and technology in the gardens with video from our Agri-business students.   “The Commodore Gardens is an incredible asset for our school system and our community as we create awareness around our state’s and region’s number one industry,” says Hatcher.  “The added bonus for our gardens is the ability to put the vegetables to good use in our community.  We are proud to have donated over 25,000 pounds of food to individuals and food banks in our community.  This has a real community impact and allows our students to learn so much more than what they might learn in the classroom.  We appreciate Mr. McClendon for nominating us and we appreciate the Grow Communities program for selecting us.”  

Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded nearly $65 million to nonprofits, aspiring ag students, and public schools across rural America. Farmers are leaders in their communities, which is why America’s Farmers programs rely on them to help identify the worthiest causes. 

“Bayer Fund is proud to work side-by-side with farmers to identify local eligible nonprofit organizations that can provide their residents with solutions that leave a lasting impact,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund president. 

To learn more about how America’s Farmers are making an impact, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com.

About Bayer Fund

Bayer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where Bayer customers and employees live and work by providing funding for food and nutrition, education, and community development projects.

About 4C Academy

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career-ready graduates with relevant skills, education, and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell, and Baker County School Systems. 

TOP 10 FLEX ABY Businesses Named

FLEX ABY – a youth entrepreneurship program produced in partnership by the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) – has named the top 10 businesses for the 2022-23 competition season.

After round one of competition, which included business plan evaluations conducted by business partners from the Albany business community, 10 student businesses will be moving on to round two:

A.R.A. Resin – Owned and operated by partners Mya Jackson and Zakaiya Ash, A.R.A. Resin produces resin-based products that are customizable to a client’s individual style.

Ariez - A handmade children and women’s clothing company in which owner Ariel Jackson seals each item with an encouraging message.

Art Stop – Owner Nylia Thompson uses her business as an outlet to share her digital and canvas art with the world.

Creed Productions – A video production company operated by Caleb Himes specializing in creating and editing sales videos for livestock.

Lovelise - A social media-based business owned by Chelise Ethridge uses art as a story-telling medium, aiming to inspire women to pursue their passions.

Messy Treats - Specializing in brownies and other baked treats, owner A'liyha Haskins’ motto is to, "Make it a sweet mess for everyone."

Plug’s Kitchen – A specialty catering business operated by Andrew Dawson aims to enhance special events.

Prayer Buddiez - Kennede Miller hand-crochets animals that help children learn about Bible verses in a fun, simplified way.

Vintage Photography - Diamond Mims’ mission is to capture life's important moments as families experience joy and create memories.

Zari D Artistry - Zaria Davenport’s multi-purpose business is currently focused on custom shoe designs.

The top 10 businesses will compete in round two of the local FLEX ABY competition on February 21 at Albany Technical College, where they will pitch their ideas to a second panel of local business leaders.

To help them scale their businesses, each of the top 10 were given the opportunity to apply for seed loans made possible by investors from the business community. To obtain loans, students met with Albany Area Chamber Foundation President & CEO Barbara Rivera Holmes and 4C CEO Chris Hatcher to give an overview of their business plans and outline specific ways they plan to invest the funds.

“The goal of FLEX ABY is to expose students to the process of starting and scaling a business through realistic, firsthand experience,” said Holmes. “Securing capital is a critical step for any business. Furthermore, it will be the responsibility of the students to manage their funds wisely to achieve maximum return on investment and be able to repay the loans as agreed.”

FLEX (Foundational Leadership and Entrepreneur X-perience) is a statewide youth entrepreneurship competition designed to encourage innovation, create prosperity and revitalize rural entrepreneurial ecosystems by exposing students to the rewards, challenges and processes associated with starting a business.

A total of $9,500 will be given in cash awards throughout the competition, with $5,000 going to the local winner.

The local competition is comprised of three phases, with one winner advancing on to the state finals, to be held in Fitzgerald in April 2023.

4C ACADEMY BLESSING OF THE COMMODORE GARDENS

MAY 5, 2022— ALBANY, GA– The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy, 4C Academy, held an Open House and Blessing of the Commodore Gardens on the 4C Academy campus. Open to the public, the event was a celebration of all of the hard work that the students have put into the garden over the last year in the school’s community service initiative, known as GroupUp.  The purpose of the initiative is to create awareness of food insecurity in Albany.  

Each of the fourteen career pathways had representative projects that are now a part of the garden to promote gardening, healthy lifestyles, and an understanding of our state’s number one industry, agriculture.

The Commodore Gardens feature 40 raised-bed, irrigated garden boxes for various seasonal vegetables, such as:

• Squash

• Okra

• Various Peppers

• Greens, Lettuce, and Kale

 Additionally, the garden features a one-half acre field for crops and an orchard that contains fruits such as: 

• Satsuma oranges, 

• Blueberries 

• Peaches

• Raspberries 

While working in the Gardens, 4C students learn the increasing role that technology plays in agriculture.  GroupUp students are responsible for building, and programming FarmBots, which are robots that water and weed crops that grow in the garden boxes.  The FarmBots and the school’s mobile produce stand are powered by solar panels, which are also built by the students..  

The garden also contains a walking path where elementary and middle school students can tour the gardens and learn about agriculture with descriptive signs and QR codes that link to videos created by students.  As students walk this path, they will also pass by the Gardens’ new chicken coop and three honeybee hives.

Speakers at the open house included Chris Hatcher, CEO of the 4C Academy, Ms. Paige Pushkin of Georgia Foundation for Public Education, Mr. Kenneth Dyer, Superintendent of the Dougherty County School System, Ms. Angie Gardner, Principal of the 4C Academy, and State Senator Freddie Powell Sims.  Pastor Daniel Simmons, Senior Pastor at Mt. Zion Church and 4C Board Member, gave a blessing of the gardens.

The 4C Academy also recognized Flint River Fresh and Fernando Jackson, aka Farmer Fredo, as the 4C Academy’s 2021 Community Partner of the Year.  The organization and Farmer Fredo were instrumental in helping 4C establish the Commodore Gardens, and they continue to be valued partners.  “When looking for a partner to help us establish a garden at the 4C Academy, we didn’t have to look very far,” says Hatcher.  He adds, “the minute I met Farmer Fredo and he shared Flint River Fresh’s mission, I knew we found the perfect partner for our school.”

Megan Verner, the 4C Agribusiness instructor, was honored for her extensive efforts in building the agribusiness program. Agribusiness students are responsible for maintaining The Commodore Gardens’ facilities and crops while learning business management skills necessary for success in today’s agriculture industry. 

The program ended with a groundbreaking for a 5,800 square foot hydroponics greenhouse that will be a part of the Commodore Gardens.  The 4C Academy and the Dougherty County School System have big plans for the greenhouse and look forward to sharing more details once the project is completed.

​​
MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C ACADEMY PREPARES FOR PEACHTREE DISTRICT ROBOTICS COMPETITION

2022 Peachtree District, Columbus, GA

March 29, 2022— Albany, GA— The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) Robotics team, The Commodores, are preparing for the FIRST® Robotics Peachtree District event to be held at the Albany Civic Center this weekend, April 1st-2nd, 2022. This event follows the team’s first-place finish at the FIRST® Robotics Peachtree District event in Columbus, Georgia on March 19th, 2022. 

Following an outstanding performance in Columbus, the Commodores were awarded the title of Peachtree District Event Winner along with their alliance partners The Columbus Space Program (Alliance Captain) and The Fayetteville Space Dragons. The Commodores also received the Autonomous Award by Ford, which celebrates the team that demonstrates consistency, reliability, and high-performance operations in the robot’s autonomous programming. 

Currently ranked 4th out of 67 Georgia FIRST® Robotics teams, the Commodores will compete in the Procter & Gamble Albany event this weekend. The team’s Coach Darren Hagler, says, “The Commodores are well prepared to defend our State ranking. We have an exceptionally talented team of young people who have spent countless hours preparing for this year’s competitions.” Hagler encourages Albany residents to attend and cheer for local teams. “Robotics is fun, and these competitions are no exception. In addition to the 4C Commodores, Westover High School, Monroe High School, Lee County High School, Deerfield-Windsor, and several other area teams will compete,” Hagler continues. 

Points earned during district matches are calculated to determine qualifiers for the State-level competition to be held in Macon, Georgia April 9th-10th, 2022. 

According to 4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher, “We are fortunate to have a state-of-the-art workspace where all area teams can work alongside mentors from area businesses and community organizations to build and practice their robots. We also appreciate each and every one of our industry partners who have sponsored our local robotics teams and would especially like to thank Procter & Gamble for sponsoring the Albany event.  These investments from our local businesses, along with the investments that the Dougherty County School System has made in robotics - with elementary, middle, and high school programs - will pay dividends for our local and regional employers who are looking for talent with design, electrical, programming, and mechanical skills.”   

The FIRST® Robotics Peachtree District competition sponsored by Procter & Gamble is open to the public.
Location: Albany Civic Center: 100 W. Oglethorpe Blvd., Albany, GA.
Date and time: 
Qualification matches begin Friday, April 1st. 9 am to 7 pm. and, Saturday, April 2nd, 9 am to noon. 
Play-off and final rounds begin at 1 pm Saturday, April 2nd. 
The awards ceremony will be held Saturday at 4 pm. 

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career-ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell, and Baker County School Systems. 

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

"How to Begin New Chapters in Your Life as You Age Into the New Year"

Clarice Henry

English 1101 Student Submission

As the wind hits my face in the cool winter breeze, I stare out the window of the bus with my thoughts discombobulated. With the year coming to an end, I have yet to discover the true meaning of separating the image of my life constructed by my self-conscious life from the reality of my monotonous life. In today’s society, one has heard the phrase “new year; new me.” However, I truly believe this form of expression has gained a blinded perception of how to wholeheartedly uncover one’s inner self. Opposed to stating these illogical words, it is better to say “new year, same you!” Though the forthcoming of 2022 is quickly approaching, an individual should strive to become just a better version of him that already exists.

For one to partake in the journey of finding his pure self, it begins with opening new chapters in his life, starting with introspection. Introspection can be defined as the observation of his personal emotional and mental feelings. Even though mental health has frequently gone unnoticed in the eyes of an average person for the lack of representation, it has slowly procured a role in the media as a concept that needs to be discussed. For example, there is a negative stigma of men receiving help with their mental health in present-day. Acquiring aid with one's mental health should not be viewed in a dreadful aspect. There is a substantial amount of healthiness that comes with the communication with a therapist. The negative light of men pursuing help with their mental health correlates with the ideology of toxic masculinity, an idea in which one believes that men should behave as stereotypical characters. In the year 2022, individuals should seek to obtain assistance with balancing their mental well-being to live a flourishing life. 

Another way to begin new chapters is to become open-minded. For instance, since the start of the global pandemic, I have learned that diving into a new hobby has benefited me in ways that are completely unimaginable.  Prior to COVID-19, I stayed within my comfort zone; therefore, when the disaster struck, I deeply regretted not allowing myself to endeavor into new activities. During my time in quarantine, I have read poems, interacted with my family, as well as learned various k-pop dances from my favorite artists. 

For the year ahead, I encourage ones to merely attempt ridiculous adventures to free his story eagerly prepared for him. Whether it's jumping out of an airplane or even eating that unique burger that disgusts him, one will never know what awaits until a new chapter has begun. 

4C Kicks Off 2021 Group-Up Initative

Story by Marianna Wright
9th grade Marketing and Management student

Today, each pathway of the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy’s (4C Academy) local Career Preparation Program, 4C Academy, is presenting what they have been discussing in Group Up. Group Up is a gathering of 9th and 10th grade students that goes deeper into their pathway exploration, where students learn more about their career choices, and use their knowledge to solve real world problems. Each pathway is working on a Group Up project to help the community. Each project presentation is a glimpse of what goes on inside each pathway.

The Healthcare Pathway is solving the issue of obesity/diabetes, cavities, and weak immune systems for children. They hope to solve this problem by encouraging 30-day water trackers and healthy snack alternatives.

The Technology pathway project has been dubbed “Skydrone.” The students noticed the lack of staff to monitor the 4C Carden during holidays. Skydrone is a computerized monitoring system that will help staff manage the needs of the garden during off times. 

The Audio and Visual Technology pathway wants to get videos and vlogs out to the community to spread awareness of the need for fresh produce. Students claim they need camera equipment for film and computers to edit. They call their project “Picture Perfect Produce.” 

The creative name, “FarmBot” belongs to the Mechatronics project. The students want to help make farming easier. They hope bringing technology to the garden allows garden staff to “never have to worry about watering the plants again.”

The Pathway, Teaching as a Profession, urges the need of 4C STEM Certification. They call their project “Stem Certification Tiger Team.” Students hope people realize the importance of STEM education at 4C Academy. The students also stress the need to create awareness of fresh food scarcity. Students believe that giving tours of our 4C Garden will spread the importance of healthy eating. 

Back to our Healthcare Pathway, students want to make people aware of excessive screen time, model healthy screen time, and offer other activities like playing outside. 

The Agribusiness project is “4C Green.” Their goal is to provide fresh produce to the community to solve the issue of a high obesity rate. They are going to grow fresh produce and hopefully partner with local organizations to help spread the word of availability of fruits and veggies.

Graphic Design wants to make banners and posters to encourage the awareness of food shortages. Students hope that people will realize the problem so that we can work together to solve it.

The Engineering Pathway is going to solve the problem of lack of power and energy so our garden can get what it needs. This will provide energy to our 4C Garden.

Health Informatics students aspire to inform the community about food insecurities, how to keep the environment clean, and how to be compassionate towards the less fortunate. Group-Up Projects are mostly focused on community service and giving back to the community. So far, the group has picked up 400 pounds worth of trash on Lockett Station Road. The students’ future projects will include canned food drives and prepping healthy meal boxes at the food bank.

The Marketing and Management pathway will spread the word of what goes on at 4C Academy. To achieve this, students will need cameras, notebooks, and advertising materials. Students seek attention for 4C Academy so people will know what is going on for our high school students. 

As you can see, 4C Academy is accomplishing great things. Students are not only learning about it, they are doing it! Group-Up at 4C is creating a lot of great futures. 

4C Academy Named College and Career Academy of the Year

LaGrange, GA, October 6, 2021--  The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) has been selected as the 2021 College and Career Academy of the Year. The announcement was made at the Lt. Governor’s Annual Business and Education Summit where the 4C Academy was recognized for its strong community partnerships, its growing internship program, and its innovative project-based learning initiatives. The 4C Academy was selected by the Lt. Governor’s office from a group of four very deserving finalists, according to Mark Peevy, Assistant Commissioner with the Technical College System of Georgia.  

Accepting the award on behalf of the 4C Academy was Chris Hatcher, CEO, Angie Gardner, Principal, and Kenneth Dyer, Superintendent of the Dougherty County School System.  “This award is a testament to the strong partnerships and teamwork that we have in our community,” stated Hatcher.  “We are so fortunate to have a dedicated board of directors and a committed group of instructors who are focused on developing talent and preparing students for success.”

Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan was the Keynote Speaker at the Business and Education Summit and applauded the 50 plus college and career academies for their work in helping make Georgia the number one state in which to do business for the eighth straight year.  Duncan shared his vision for making Georgia the technology hub of the east coast with the attendees, made up of college and career academy executives/boards, statewide business/industry leaders, and local and state education officials.  He encouraged the college and career academies to continue to innovate and leverage technology as they prepare students for the future. 

Dougherty County School Superintendent Kenneth Dyer commented on the award saying, “It has been exciting to see the evolution of the 4C Academy as we continue to push for innovation and relevancy in education.  It is our goal to provide multiple options for our high school students to learn and grow, and 4C is making a tremendous impact by preparing students, connecting them with our local business community, and exposing them to opportunities right here in Albany.  We are certainly proud of 4C and look forward to continued success.”  

Chandu Kuntawala, Chairman of the Board of the 4C Academy, was also excited about the award, “This award represents the culmination of the foundation that was laid 7 years ago, with the incredible work and achievements that the leadership, staff, and team have achieved since then.  I have said it from the beginning, 4C is a ‘game changer’ for our community and it remains true today.  It is great to be recognized by the Lt. Governor’s office and we are very proud of the 4C Academy and this accomplishment.”

Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan’s Third Annual Business and Education Summit took place on October 5th at the THINC College and Career Academy in LaGrange.  Industry and community leaders, as well as state and local education officials joined the Lt. Governor for a one-day conference aimed at furthering the dialogue around transformative education initiatives that will build a workforce second to none.

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career-ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell, and Baker County School Systems. 

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

Recent Dougherty County High School Graduates Complete Construction Ready Training – Ready to start their Careers in the Construction Industry!

July 30, 2021 -- The Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (CEFGA) has expanded its “Construction Ready” program into Dougherty County - making their 20-day construction education program available to recent high school graduates with training, credentialing, and job placement.  The Dougherty County training was hosted by the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy).

On July 30, 2021, eight recent high school graduates from Dougherty County Schools completed the Construction Ready program, which included a hiring fair with local construction industry employers; 100% of the cohort received offers of employment at the graduation ceremony.   The eight credentials earned by the students include National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core, OSHA 10-Hour Card, First Aid/CPR/BB/AED, Powder Actuated Tool Certification, Laser Tool Certification, Forklift Safety Awareness, A.T.S.S.A. Utility Flagger Certification, and Competent Person Training in Fall Protection.

In addition to receiving these credentials, the students also learned about opportunities for advancing their construction education from members of Albany Technical College’s Carlton Construction Academy.  ATC instructors from the carpentry, masonry and electrical programs shared career information with the students while Lisa Harrell, Dean of Academic Affairs, shared information about the flexibility of the offerings along with tuition assistance through the HOPE Career Grant.

The Construction Ready expansion into Southwest Georgia and a program for recent high school graduates is part of a major growth of the program across Georgia, financed in part by the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) fund (a part of the CARES Act). In August 2020, Governor Kemp announced CEFGA was selected to receive $3.3 million to expand the Construction Ready program. The GEER funding supports important education and workforce training to help Georgians move past the pandemic.  

“We were excited to have the Construction Ready program expand to Southwest Georgia to help grow the construction workforce in our region of the state where there is a high demand for talent,” said Chris Hatcher, CEO of the 4C Academy.  “This program is an excellent way for students to attain skills, learn about continuing education from our partner at Albany Technical College, and get a job with a local firm.”

Since 2014, CEFGA through the Construction Ready program has trained more than 1,200 workers of all ages for a successful career in construction. Successes of the program include: 

• 97% job placement by end of training

• Average starting salary of $12-15/hour

• 70% of participants employed with same company one year later

The goal of the Construction Ready program is to help close the workforce skills gap. The Nationwide Workforce Initiative finds that for every five people that retire from the skilled professions, there is only one apprentice to fill the job. The lack of skilled workers is also a problem in Georgia as a shortage of more than 61,000 workers was reported in 2019. The shortage has continued through the pandemic. Closing this skills gap by educating more Georgians about careers in the skilled professions is CEFGA’s primary goal.  

The students were recognized during the graduation ceremony and were grateful for the opportunity.  “I am very thankful for this program.  It changed me.  It gave me a new purpose.  I’m on to a new career,” said Dwaski King, who was matched with Pellicano Construction.  Each student received a plaque, their credentials, and an envelope that contained the company where the student matched.  All of the graduates matched and will report to work on Monday.  “I’m so excited.  I’m on to bigger and better things,” remarked Ricky Jefferson who was matched with MetroPower.  

“It’s great to see CEFGA allocating Georgia’s GEER funding to recent high school graduates who can benefit from the Construction Ready program,” said Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. “These are challenging times for our state, but we will continue to work around the clock to support our students with workforce training, improve outcomes, and help place hardworking Georgians into great careers in the Construction Industry.

About CEFGA 

More information on the Construction Ready program and CEFGA can be found by visiting https://cefga.org. ###

4C ACADEMY AND PHOEBE SIGN PARTNERSHIP

Phoebe Putney and 4C Academy Sign CNA Program Partnership Agreement

April 8, 2021— Albany, GA— Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital (Phoebe) and The Commodore Conyers College and Career Acadey (4C Academy) held the formal signing of a unique partnership agreement that includes a new paid internship program for 4C Academy healthcare science students.  

“There are growing nationwide shortages of nurses and other healthcare professionals, and the competition for those workers is only going to get more fierce.  We cannot sit back and wait for qualified applicants to appear at our door.  We must find innovative ways to get local students excited about careers in healthcare and show them there are great opportunities to thrive right here at home.  We know this partnership will help us do that,” said Scott Steiner, Phoebe Putney Health System President and CEO.

Phoebe will make a $75,000 donation to the 4C Foundation each of the next two years to fund the internship and outreach programs. The two-year agreement includes internships for 20 students each year.  They will work four hours a day for 16 weeks in various roles at Phoebe and will receive a stipend.

“Some people do not fully understand all that is available at Phoebe.  We provide some of the most advanced care available anywhere, using leading equipment and breakthrough technology, and the Phoebe Simulation and Innovation Center is one of the best and most high-tech simulation labs in the southeast United States,” said Tracy Suber, EdD, MSN, Phoebe Assistant Vice President of Simulation Center and Nursing Education.  “We want to show off those resources, expose students – at an early age – to various jobs available to them in this growing, vibrant and vital field, and nurture in them a desire to serve their community through a healthcare career,” Dr. Suber added. 

“Our mission is to produce students with exceptional skills and work ethic who are ready to compete and succeed in the real world the day they graduate.  We’re fortunate to have outstanding partners like Phoebe who are willing to give our students opportunities for hands-on learning that can truly transform their lives and give them a jumpstart on productive careers,” said Chris Hatcher, 4C Academy CEO.

Dougherty County School System Superintendent, Kenneth Dyer, echoed Mr. Hatcher. Mr. Dyer remarked, “We have a long standing partnership with Phoebe and we are excited to expand the pipeline for healthcare professionals in our area. There is a need and opportunity to help Phoebe, and we want to do our part to help develop students to meet our workforce needs.” 

Event attendees included seven 4C healthcare science students in addition to 35 healthcare science students who attended via Zoom. Mr. Hatcher addressed the 4C students, “When opportunities present themselves, you have to take advantage of them. This is one of those opportunities. You have the opportunity while in high school to earn two certifications, to get a paid internship, and to have interactions with medical professionals at one of the Nation’s top hospitals. I want to encourage you to take advantage of this.” 

Healthcare science student, Kennedy Luster spoke on behalf of her peers, “I am excited for this opportunity to help my community. I am excited because an internship with Phoebe will benefit me in the long run by giving me experience, which will put me a step ahead when I go to medical school.” Luster added she would like to return to her home community of Albany once she has completed her education. 

4C Academy healthcare science instructor, Melissa Clark, RN, BSN, added, “This opportunity will provide a foundation for a successful career in any healthcare field. The internship experience will give students confidence in obtaining a higher degree in addition to the opportunity to observe and network with Phoebe professionals.”

As part of the agreement, 4C Academy will also establish an outreach program for nine area middle schools and seven area high schools to create awareness of careers in healthcare.  The program will include meetings with parents to inform them of the opportunities and advantages of healthcare careers, as well as tours of Phoebe facilities for middle school students.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Hatcher

CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy

Ph: 229-431-1562

Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org

Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C ACADEMY ROBOTICS HOSTS RIBBON CUTTING

The 4C Commodores Celebrate the 2020 FIRST Field with Ribbon Cutting

February 5, 2020— Albany, GA—Tuesday evening, The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) robotics team, The Commodores, recognized community partners in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the redesign of the school’s practice field in the STEM gym for the FIRST Robotics 2020 challenge. 

 “This event was an opportunity for our local robotics teams to thank those in our community who make robotics possible - our business sponsors, our coaches and our mentors. They invest so much into this program - whether it’s their dollars or their time - and we really wanted to thank them,” remarked Chris Hatcher, CEO of 4C Academy. 

 “It was also a great opportunity for our teams to hear from industry leaders in our community about how robotics is being used right here in Albany at the Base, at Phoebe Putney, and at Procter & Gamble. We were honored to have them as part of the program,” Hatcher continued. Special guests speakers were Farid Khan, Plant Manager for Procter & Gamble Albany, Joe Austin, CEO of Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Major Daniel Whitt, MCLB, LOGCOM, and Connie Haynes, CEO of Georgia FIRST.

 Guests at the event included robotics teams from other schools in the area who utilize the 4C Academy’s facilities to develop their own robots. In addition to thanking team coaches, local FIRSTÒ mentors were also recognized during the ceremony. According to Darren Hagler, The Commodores team coach, “Mentors add an incredible level of value to the robotics experience. Mentors provide expertise in areas like programming, design, fabrication and even marketing, and they volunteer their time, energy and knowledge to help our students build a solid foundation in STEM fields.”

 Founded in 1989, FIRST is a not-for-profit designed to inspire young people’s interest in participation in science and technology, and to motivate them to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM fields. Each year, robotics teams from across the globe compete for the opportunity to qualify for the FIRSTÒ Championship game. This year’s FIRST challenge theme, Infinite Recharge, was developed in partnership between FIRST  and Star Wars: A Force for Change charity. In the game, robots must be able to perform various functions including climbing a wall and throwing “power cells”.

During the month of March, there will be five Georgia FIRST qualifying events leading to the State Championship April 1st -4th at Mercer University. The Proctor & Gamble Albany Qualifier competition will be held March 26th -28th at the Albany Civic Center.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Hatcher

CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy

Ph: 229-431-1562

Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org

Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

Teaching As A Profession Students Attend Columbus State University

Teaching as a Profession Practicum
Kennedy Larkin
Columbus State Field Trip Reflection
October 27th, 2019

On October 23rd, 2019, I was given the chance to visit and tour the Columbus State University campus for Future Georgia Educator’s Day hosted by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE). The conference agenda included a number of workshops for future educators as well as a campus tour. 

Campus tours were led by current CSU students who talked about their on-campus experience. My group leader discussed her experiences living on campus. She talked to my group about her campus life and how student friendly the university is. Universities and colleges are always portrayed with all the benefits, but nobody ever discusses cons of colleges either. My group leader talked about things she didn’t like about the university and it gave me a lot of insight on the school.

My favorite part of the trip was the bus tour of the campus. Columbus State has 2 campuses: a main campus and the RiverPark campus. The RiverPark campus is where students will live during their first year. RiverPark’s campus is in downtown Columbus; so many activities are within walking distance for students. This is also why the college is so student friendly. There are a lot of hobbies students can take on as well. From badminton to theater, there is a variety of areas a student can spend his/her time in.

Visiting the university also connected to what I am learning at school. At school, I am learning to be more independent and more workforce driven. At the 4C Academy, we learn soft skills and ethics. These skills and ethics are points that I will have to apply somewhere in my after high school and college career. Going into college, I will know and apply these skills. With 4C’s rules and regulations, it prepares students for the real world, their career, and their workforce.         

I would recommend this trip to a friend because they would get to experience a very diverse college. I feel students should visit as many colleges as possible to see what different schools have to offer. Columbus State has a student friendly campus and an ethical work environment. This university also has a broad choice of majors to choose from and there is something to offer to everyone at this university. 

4C ACADEMY STUDENTS ADOPT A STREAM

ADOPT A STREAM EXPERIENCE

The Scientific Research class recently adopted the local Lower Flint Watershed, our specific spot is located right along the River Walk at Turtle Grove Park in Albany, GA. One of the reasons why we chose this project was to ensure we fulfilled our school objective to increase Project Based Learning tasks and also be involved in the community. My utmost reason was to engage my students with a real world and local experience. This workshop allowed them to learn outside of the four walls of the classroom and sparked their interest in the class which seemed boring at first because they believed all they had to do was research, research, research and write…

After taking the workshop the students were able to use their knowledge to conduct the water monitoring field tests. The students interested in the water were excited about the chemical testing, while the students interested in the macro-invertebrates were able to explore the macros in our river. This experience not only enables the students to explore their interests but also help increase their awareness and instill the desire to become environmental champions in our local community.

VIRGINIA KIRIMA
COMMODORE CONYERS COLLEGE AND CAREER
SCIENCE INSTRUTOR

The following are journal entries from a different students’ experiences.

Sariya B

       ADOPT a stream workshops have enhanced my learning because at first I didn’t really know about the Flint River. The instructor came and taught about different animals and I didn’t even know half of that information. I’m so glad that she came to talk about the different things about the Flint River. I learned what ADOPT means which is Awareness, Data, Observation, Partnerships, and Tools/Training. I also learned about what kind of environments the animals can live in and what animals live inside the local stream.

On our next water quality project trip, I want to learn even more information and get in the water to test the levels. I made some mistakes at the event when me and my group got the phosphate and nitrate chemicals mixed up with each other and we put the wrong amount of drops the first time. The second time we did it correctly and got the water to change colors it was very interesting to see. Being able to work with chemicals, go outside of school for a field trip, or even just enjoying volunteering with the water quality project is amazing!!

KANDISE J.

I also gained an understanding of the different types of pollution that can be inside rivers and around its environments. The 2 types of pollution are point source pollution and nonpoint source pollution. ….. The studying of rivers also included measurements of temperatures that the water is exposed to and different types of macro-invertebrates in the water’s environment. Just small things in the water can cause pH level changes and can affect many living things. But overall I learned a handful of information and many new insects and I Truly enjoyed this experience.

Parnell M.

The importance in volunteering for the water quality monitoring project was to see if our river flow is/was healthy. What I learned about the flint river was that the water flow was high. Yes, the Flint river is also healthy because when I did the experiment the pH was 7.0, which means the river was healthy. I would like to actually see the macro-invertebrates move/fly around and see how they adapt to the area.

Kamaria P.

On the next water quality monitoring trip I would like to fix mistakes I made along the way like, I put too much water in the sample and it made the test go slower so my group had to start over. Then when I did that the test again it happened faster and it was right. But, overall the experience showed me a lot about how I need to keep the water clean by recycling and not throwing my trash on the ground. I can say that I am truly lucky to have the opportunity to ADOPT the Flint river.

4C ACADEMY ROBOTICS WORLD BOUND

The 4C Commodores Qualify for 2019 FIRST Championship

 April 8, 2019— Albany, GA—The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) robotics team, The Commodores, is preparing for the 2019 FIRST Championship to be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas next week, April 17th-20th. This world-level qualification follows the team’s exceptional 2019 competition season in which The Commodores garnered an overall 9th place finish out of 87 Georgia-based teams. 

 Founded in 1989, FIRST is a not-for-profit designed to inspire young people’s interest in participation in science and technology, and to motivate them to to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM fields. Each year, robotics teams from across the globe compete for the opportunity to qualify for the FIRST Championship game. This year’s theme, Destination; Deep Space, challenged participating teams to build robots capable of carrying “cargo”, and climbing back on their “spaceships”. 

 The Commodore’s coach, Darren Haglar explained, “Last year, we were named Georgia’s Rookie All-star team, which automatically qualified us for the Championship game in Texas. Going into the season, we knew the only way to get back to Houston would be to win based on robotic performace. As a second year team, we are competing against teams that have been around for a long time with much more experience, and budget, than our team.  But we worked hard during the build season and our robot and our team performed very well at both of the district qualifying events as well as the State Championship event.” 

 Chris Hatcher, 4C Academy CEO, also commented on the announcement, “I am very proud of our robotics team members – they have worked incredibly hard this year!  It is very challenging for any team to earn a spot to the World competition and represent the state of Georgia, especially as a 2nd year team. It’s a huge accomplishment.   

 I am also very excited about the overall direction of the robotics program in the Albany area.  We have a great group of mentors, great coaches, strong community support and a state-of-the-art facility that all area teams can take advantage of.  This is important to our region because robotics teaches many of the skills required for success - skills like problem solving, teamwork, critical thinking and work ethic – and it allows students to develop these skills while having fun and competing.  This is a winning combination that is preparing our young folks for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”    

 At the FIRST Championship approximately 600 teams, over 15,000 students and 40,000 attendees from 70 plus countries will compete, learn, and inspire one another to continue in the STEM fields. Mr. Hatcher continued, “This is the opportunity of a life-time for many of our students. The cost of this trip is significant, however we are certain the benefits of this experience far outweigh the costs. We are working quickly to secure additional funding through sponsorships and donations from our community.”

 For sponsorship information, please contact Chris Hatcher at the 4C Academy. We appreciate the following sponsors for helping us through the regular season: 

P&G                                         NEOS
The Home Depot                     A. West Electrical
Colony Bank                             DOD STEM
NASA                                       Dougherty County School System

  MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world. Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C ACADEMY ASSISTS IN DISASTER RELIEF

4C Academy Healthcare Students Deliver Donations to Cairo College and Career Academy

 March 18, 2019— Albany, GA— To assist victims of the March 4th tornados that damaged hundreds of homes in the Cairo community, the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) Healthcare Science students collected, then delivered supplies and donations to Cairo College and Career Academy last Friday. 

 According to 4C Healthcare Science team member, Zamek Sparks, “This community service project started as a class project for the Healthcare Science team to show our compassion and empathy for the tornado victims in Cairo. As we reached out to local businesses and community partners the support tremendously increased. We received many donations from various organizations and individuals.” 

 4C Academy Healthcare Science Instructor, Melissa Laslie, adds, ”Albany Technical College President, Dr. Parker, gave his immediate support, which was followed by many of his employees and their families. Through word of mouth, other businesses joined in our efforts, and our small class project quickly grew into a community affair.” 

 4C Academy team members filled a cargo trailer with supplies, which they delivered Friday, March 15thto the Cairo College and Career Academy for dispersal.  In support of the project, 4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher explained, “We want our team members to experience the value of community service; this project allowed them to see the impact that can be made when everyone works together towards a shared goal. We are grateful to our community for the support and would like to recognize the businesses that contributed to our project.”

 Participating businesses:
Adorn Hair Boutique                                                                Nexus Pain Center
Premier Orthopedics                                                               Albany Surgical
Then and Now Boutique                                                          Homerun Foods
Dr. Doug Patten & The Medical College of Georgia                Albany Technical College
Villager Cleaners                                                                     Publix, Valdosta
The Nail Lounge & Spa                                                           Bush Animal Clinic
Twisted W. Farm                                                                      First Freewill Baptist Church

MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world. Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONS TECHNICIAN INTERNS ANNOUNCED

P&G Selects 4C Academy IOT Students for Internship

February 5, 2019— Albany, GA—The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) together with Procter & Gamble (P&G) and Albany Technical College (ATC) are pleased to announce the names of Industrial Operations Technician (IOT) program students selected for P&G’s IOT internship initiative.

The IOT program is a product of the business needs of Albany area manufacturers.  P&G and other local employers partnered with ATC to develop a curriculum that prepares students for entry-level positions in and around Albany.  The 4C Academy recruited high school juniors to the program where they take  ATC dual enrollment classes including  Management, Employablility, Industrial Operations and Industrial Mechanics. As part of the IOT program, students also attain a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.  Students enrolled in the program are given the opportunity to apply to P&G’s IOT internship program, which is a first of its kind partnership between P&G and public education. 

4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher explains, “We are excited to provide this opportunity to high school students who have completed the majority of their high school requirements and are looking to develop a marketable skill. They attend the 4C Academy each morning where they  learn employability skills in addition to course work specific to P&G and other manufacturer’s needs.” 

Students selected for the spring internship attended a welcoming ceremony at the 4C Academy last Thursday. The interns selected were Mikiera Banks, Monica Roberts, Aniya Sumlin, Amari Sumlin, and  Isaiah Willams all from Dougherty Comprehensive High School, and Edwin Laster from Monroe Comprehensive High School. The internship will begin mid-March for a 6-week period. Students who successfully complete the IOT program and P&G internship will be given priority in P&G’s hiring process. 

According to P&G’s Plant Manager, Werhner Washington, “We are absolutely thrilled to see us launch this program because this gives these students a real manufacturing work experience that will help them understand if they want to choose manufacturing as a career choice. They get to see the real work we do at P&G; operating equipment, maintaining equipment. We get a chance to observe them in a real world situation, which gives us information to let us know if these are people we would like to hire for full time positions.”

Regarding the program, 4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher, says, “This is an incredible opportunity for our students and we are grateful to Procter & Gamble for their leadership and their investment in this program.  An internship like this -  a chance to gain experience with one of the world’s largest companies - is an opportunity of  of a lifetime and we are so proud of these students and excited for their futures.”

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

 About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world. Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C ACADEMY KICKS-OFF COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT

The 4C Academy Kicks-off Inaugural Gather-Up Food Drive

December 6, 2018— Albany, GA—The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) is hosting a community food drive in an effort to assist families in need this holiday season. 

A school-wide initiative, Gather-Upwas developed as a community service project by the school’s Junior Board of Directors as an initiative within the school’s professional and soft skills program. 

The purpose of Gather-Up is to provide students an opportunity to give back to the community. “We wanted to find a project that would help our community and involve our entire school, and felt a can drive could really help those in need, commented Earnest Christian, 4C Academy Junior Board of Directors member.

Each 4C Academy team member has been given a Gather-Upt-shirt to wear, as well as  grocery bags with information cards to hand out to neighbors and family. Team members will ask for donations of canned goods and non-perishable food items December 8ththrough 9th. Donated items should be returned to the school Monday, December 10th. Team members will then sort and prepare donations for distribution to local food banks. 

In support of the project, 4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher explained, “We want our team members to experience the value of community service, and this project will allow them to see the impact that can be made when everyone works together towards a shared goal. I have challenged our students to help fill our logistics lab with canned goods so we can help Albany residents who are still recovering from Hurricane Michael.” 

Items most needed include:

-Canned meats                         -Cereal
-Canned fruits/vegetables       -Canned soups
-Peanut butter                          -Shelf-stable milk
-Pasta and pasta sauce. -Rice and beans

 Additional donations will be graciously accepted at the 4C Academy during business hours. If you or your business would like to participate, please contact Chris Hatcher. 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world. Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C Academy Releases Fall E-Newsleter

The fall edition of the 4C Academy’s e-newsletter is available!

https://conta.cc/2Q6WLVY

Teaching as a Pathway Students Selected for State Council

4C ACADEMY HEALTHCARE PATHWAY SEEKS SCRUBS DONATIONS

Healthcare Team Members Receive Donated Scrubs

September 18, 2018— Albany, GA—The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) Healthcare Services pathway instructors, Jessica Blanchard, BSN, RN and Melissa Laslie, BSN, RN, are seeking donations of scrubs to be worn by 4C Academy healthcare students.

According to Blanchard and Laslie, “We know that for our team members to be successful, they must be dressed for the part. Here at the 4C, we ask our team to “Dress for Success” once a week in either scrubs or business attire.” Last semester, the team received multiple donations, many of which came from anonymous donors. “Our program has more than doubled since last semester, which is wonderful news. To accommodate our growing numbers, we are once again asking the community for donations of gentle loved scrubs,” says Blanchard.   

4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher agrees, “Our goal at the 4C Academy is to prepare our students for the real world. This includes teaching them about situational appropriateness - in which students learn the social norms within their desired field. For medical professionals, this often means wearing scrubs. Our healthcare labs allow our instructors to simulate a variety of healthcare settings  such as a hospital room, a medical office or the home care environment. The scrubs allow the instructors to further the simulation as our students prepare for their next steps.  We appreciate each and every donation!”     

The donated scrubs will be assigned to students in the Healthcare Services pathway. Additional donations are needed and may be dropped off at the school during regular school hours.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING HOW TO DONATE:
Jessica Blanchard
Healthcare Services Instructor, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Email: Jessica.Blanchard@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

 MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world.  Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems. 

4C ACADEMY SEEKS BOOK CLUB DONATIONS

4C Academy Teaching as a Pathway Class Seeks Donations for Monthly Book Club

August 29, 2018— Albany, GA—The Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy (4C Academy) Teaching as a Profession Pathway, under the guidance of 4C Instructor, Dr. Keyla Johnson, has organized the Future Educators Book Club in an effort to help make real world connections to class standards. 

Dr. Johnson and the 4C Team Members are seeking the assistance of the Albany community to purchase a class set of various titles of books to be used during the 2018/2019 school year. “We are seeking monetary donations as well as donations of gently used books. The first two books for class reading are The First Days of School by Harry Wong and Rosemary Wong and Fires in the Bathroom written by Kathleen Cushman. These books serve as guides for teachers at every level, sharing ideas on classroom management and designing lessons for academic success. The class will hold weekly meetings on Fridays,” according to Dr. Johnson.   

In support of the Teaching as a ProfessionPathway, 4C Academy CEO, Chris Hatcher says, “Our goal at the 4C Academy is to prepare our students for the real world. The 4C Book Club provides a structured format in which our teaching students can learn to openly and creatively share ideas and information, a skill vital in today’s work environment. I am frequently asked by community members and civic clubs how they can help support the 4C Academy and I think this is a great way for them to get involved.  We appreciate our community’s help in this endeavor.”    

Other books to be utilized:

·      What Great Teachers Do Differently by Todd Whitaker

·      No More Culturally Irrelevant Teaching by Abigail Salas Maguire, Alicia Arce-Boardman, Carmen I. Lugo Llerena, Jessica Martell, and Mariana Souto-Manning

·      The Leader in Me by Stephen Covey

·       I Wish My Teacher Knew by Kyle Schwartz

The goal for the Future Educators Book Club is to raise $950.  The students have already raised  raised $350 towards their goal.  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING HOW TO DONATE:

Dr. Keyla Johnson
Teaching as a Profession Instructor, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Email: Keyla.Johnson@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

MEDIA CONTACT:
Chris Hatcher
CEO, Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy
Ph: 229-431-1562
Email: Chris.Hatcher@4CAcademy.org
Web: 4CAcademy.org

About 4C Academy:

The mission of the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy is to produce college and career ready graduates with relevant skills and education and exceptional work ethic who can compete and succeed in the real world. Our partners include local business and industry, the Dougherty County School System, Albany Technical College, Albany State University, the Albany/Dougherty Economic Development Commission, and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  In addition, we have partnered with the Calhoun, Terrell and Baker County School Systems.