West High Advanced Computer Apps students learned Microsoft Office in depth this semester to prepare them to succeed in college and career technology platforms. The class combined passed over 37 Microsoft International exams sponsored by Certiport Pearson Vue testing agency. Students range from sophomores to seniors. Students who passed an industry certification in this class received honors credit towards their grade point average. Students are also more eligible to obtain summer internships and higher pay with these certifications.
Amy Whaley, teacher, proclaimed, "Each student who passes a Microsoft exam and carries a 3.0 or higher grade point average will graduate with distinction. If a student earns a composite score of 19 or higher on the ACT and also earns a Microsoft industry certification will be a Tennessee Tri-Star Scholar upon graduation. There are basically numerous opportunities for any students who takes this class."
Eight students became Microsoft Office Specialist Associates meaning they are certified in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. They are Yadira Gallardo, Lily Hale, Rebecca Jones, Molly Livesay, Hope Nichols, Tania Roque-Castro, James Rosen, and Benjamin Silva Estrada. Rosen also passed the Walters State dual credit exam earning college credit in INFS1010. Rosen notes, "I believe students should take Advanced Computer Applications because they will learn how to work on Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel which will help them in any career they choose."
