A huge thank you to James Larrison from the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) for presenting to our automotive students. Students got insight into what the institute has to offer and how ATI might support their future career goals in the Automotive Field.

Criminal Justice students visited the International Spy Museum during the week of October 25-29 to learn more about the use of spy craft to protect citizens. Students enjoyed interactives and films, artifacts, and more during the 2 1/2 hour tour of the museum's collections.

Thank you to Chef Keith Simpkins from the Culinary Institute of America for coming in to talk about the culinary school as a post-secondary option for our Culinary Arts students and for conducting a cooking demonstration and lesson on gnocchi, a dough used in cooking, that has origins in Northern Italy, where it was originally made primarily from starchy potatoes. A few culinary students were given the opportunity to assist Chef Simpkins with preparing the dish.

Veterinary Science students are now in the lab several days a week for modified grooming services. At this time dogs can come in for general wellness check, baths and combing, and nail trims. Students are honing their basic animal handing skills while also practicing their customer relations skills with pets owners.

On Wednesday, Joe Wolfe, Edison Academy’s Electrical teacher, was recognized at the FCPS Excellence Awards ceremony in the category of Impact on Others. "Thank you Joe for your professionalism, dedication, and all that you do for our Edison Academy teachers and students." Joe is quick to share opportunities and to collaborate with others. He takes the lead in offering cross and co-curricular activities with other teachers. He involves his students in community service projects for non-profit organizations. Joe works with local business and industry leaders to place students in paid summer internships and youth apprenticeships while in high school and after graduation.

Salon Enclave owner, Torao Kubo, has partnered with the Edison Academy Cosmetology program to offer work based learning opportunities for interested students as assistants and receptionists and recently donated supplies to the program. We also look forward to hosting Torao for a balayage demonstration for level 2 Cosmetology students in December.

Deputy US Marshal, Charles Bradley, wore his incognito attire, in other words, dressed and looking just like a student, to visit and speak with our Criminal Justice classes about the work of the US Marshals Service and the career paths that exist for young people in the service. Marshall Bradley told some great stories which included important life lessons and shared some important take-aways for young people who are considering entering a career in any branch of law enforcement. Students also got to check out his work vehicle, and try on his tactical vest.

Leaders from the Alexandria, VA Elks Lodge 758 visited on October 1, 2021 to donate almost 800 pairs of safety glasses for our students in the Edison Academy programs. Their annual donation of safety glasses continues to make them very special partners with our Academy. All students who need eye protection to work in our Academy labs and shops are guaranteed to have a pair each year thanks to the Elks. For college bound students check out their annual scholarship program. Applications are being taken now.

Recently retired Executive Assistant Director of the Intelligence Branch of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stephen Laycock, visited with our Criminal Justice students to talk about careers with the FBI and to share his vast body of experience within the Bureau.

Criminal Justice level II students had a visit from the Fairfax County Police Department on September 13. Students learned about the department's role in serving and protecting Fairfax County citizens. Students also learned the qualifications for joining the force and career benefits for those who are chosen to serve. information about how to apply for the youth and young adult FCPS Public Safety Cadet program was also shared.

Congratulations to students and graduates of our Electrical Construction & Engineering, HVAC & Refrigeration, and Construction Technology program who were hired for work based learning experiences leading to youth apprenticeship with the Fairfax County Public Schools Office of Facilities Management

Congratulations to our 2021 Cosmetology Program students from level two who earned their State Cosmetology License. These young people are now fully licensed to begin their careers in salons. Many thanks to their Edison Academy cosmetology teachers, Ms Irene Hall current school year, 2020-2021, and Ms Soussan Bayati ( now retired) last school year, 2019-2020, for helping these young people learn and achieve this milestone. See the full blog for all the details of the student's accomplishments.