MetroFamily Magazine September October 2023

Gauge students’ interests early Skinner says it’s the “best of both worlds” for high school students to be given the chance to incorporate Francis Tuttle’s career-focused curriculum with their high school studies — and it’s important for younger students to be given opportunities to explore their interests before beginning high school. Every summer, Francis Tuttle offers Summer Quest, four weeks of engaging, hands-on activities designed for students ages 11 to 14. Class options during Summer Quest include a variety of subject areas from engineering and aeronautics to writing, painting and photography. The Francis Tuttle Engineering Academy, at both the Portland and Danforth locations, presents the Engineering Challenge each October for 6th through 9th grade students who are interested in math, science and/or engineering. Participants compete in various design competitions, complete academic exams in math and science and tour the Engineering Academy and Portland campus. Francis Tuttle works closely with area high schools and middle schools, regularly sharing information about available programs and events, but Skinner also encourages and welcomes parents to contact one of the many career advisors at any of the Francis Tuttle campuses to learn more about course offerings and how they might benefit their child’s individual interests. WHETHER STUDENTS ARE PREPARING FOR COLLEGE OR CAREER, THEY CAN GAIN PERTINENT SKILLS AND INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC CERTIFICATIONS AT FRANCIS TUTTLE. PHOTOS PROVIDED BY FRANCIS TUTTLE.

CARSON MCCACHERN’S EXPERIENCE IN THE ENGINEERING ACADEMY AT FRANCIS TUTTLE SOLIDIFIED HIS DREAM TO PURSUE A CAREER IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CINDY MCCACHERN.

Carson understands why some students might be hesitant about attending Francis Tuttle — perhaps being nervous about beginning something new — but he says, “just go for it.” “I remember being a freshman, not having a lot of self-confidence and hearing rumors about how difficult it might be, but the reality is that the teachers are so well trained and qualified that they’re able to give a really in-depth explanation of how a concept works — which helps everyone understand things better,” said Carson. “What I’ve learned at Francis Tuttle has been really valuable and I believe I’m better prepared to tackle future challenges because of this experience.” Learn more about the programs available to high school students, as well as early learning opportunities for middle school students, at francistuttle.edu.