Choice Programs

NAF Logo

Gray’s Creek High School currently offers one choice program, the Academy of Information Technology. Please note, that this academy is open only to Grays Creek High School students.

  • Challenging Curriculum: We provide a rewarding program that readies students for jobs or further education in information technology.

  • Essential Tech Courses: Dive into computer hardware, software, networking, operating systems, and web design with a focus on hands-on learning.

  • Skill-Based Learning: Our approach emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications.

  • Balanced Education: We believe in a perfect mix of academic knowledge and its practical use in the workforce.

  • Interdisciplinary Skills: We'll help you develop the skills needed to handle various demands from employers.

  • College-Level Courses: You can take advanced courses through Fayetteville Technical Community College.

  • Enrichment Opportunities: Explore the professional world with field trips, job shadowing, and potential internships.

Affiliated with and administered by the National Academy Foundation (NAF), based in New York City, this program is designed to facilitate the transition from high school to more advanced training and eventually a career in the information technology industry.

Admission Requirements

Application Link

  • Completed Application

  • Two Completed Teacher Recommendations (The AOIT director will contact the teachers listed in the application to request and obtain two completed teacher recommendations).

  • 8th Grade Students (Rising Freshman) - Overall C average in all courses

  • Gray’s Creek High School Student's - Overall C average in all courses

Students are responsible for yearly fees of $40. 

Yearly fees cover the cost of the initial uniform dry-fit polo, the new t-shirt design, and Academy Special Events. Fee benefits are itemized by grade level in school cash online.

Mission

The Academy of Information Technology’s mission is to introduce high school students to broad career opportunities in the information technology industry by providing a program of study in information systems, software installation and maintenance, and networking, to equip students with the skills necessary to compete in a dynamic career field.

Vision

Our vision is to provide highly skilled graduates with a strong foundation in information technology.

Additional Academy Requirements

Typical Course Outline by Grade Level

  • Two years of foreign language for student's planning to apply to a four-year college/university program

  • Work-based Learning/Community Service Hours

  • Wear AOIT uniform EVERY Thursday

About Us

The Academy of Information Technology (AOIT), a small learning environment, introduces students to the broad career opportunities in today’s digital workforce and equips them with the personal, analytical, technical, and communication skills needed for these careers. AOIT opens the door to new options, so that students may make sound choices for the future.

AOIT is affiliated with the National Academy Foundation (NAF). It is a national network of education, business, and community leaders that collaborate to provide high school students with career-focused learning experiences. Through industry-aligned academies in fields like Information Technology, NAF equips students with real-world skills, internships, and connections to future career opportunities. By integrating project-based learning, mentorship, and work-based experiences, NAF empowers students to graduate prepared for college, careers, and lifelong success.

Certification Exams available to AOIT students

  • Comp TIA A+ Computer Technician

  • Comp TIA IT Fundamentals

  • Python Certifications

    • PCEP - Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer

    • PCAP - Certified Associate Python Programmer

  • Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Excel

  • MOS Excel Expert

  • MOS Word

  • MOS Word Expert

  • MOS PowerPoint

  • Adobe Premier Pro

  • Adobe Video Specialist

Specified criteria must be met to sit for the certification exams.

Information Technology Required Courses

AOIT Scope & Sequence Courses

What the Academy of Information Technology (AOIT) Can Do For You

  • Work-Based Learning

  • Community Service

  • Student Organizations

  • Opportunities

  • Career Fairs

  • Field Trips

  • Guest Speakers

  • Job Shadowing

  • Internships 

  • Non-Food Drive

  • Food Drive

  • SkillsUSA

  • FBLA

  • Local Projects

  • Regional Leadership

  • Regional, State, and National

  • Conference/Competitive Events

Receive 18+ Hours of College Credit Tuition-Free

  • Junior year - 2 Courses taught by an FTCC instructor on the Grays Creek High School campus (CTS 120 & CTS 220)

  • Senior year - travel to FTCC for all Information Technology classes 

    • Cumberland County Schools provides transportation for all Information Technology classes

Non-Discrimination Statement

No student or employee in the Cumberland County Schools, shall on the basis of age, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, or handicapping condition, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity.

Amber House, Director

5301 Celebration Drive

Hope Mills, NC 28348

Telephone: 910.424.8589

amberhouse@ccs.k12.nc.us