New Engineering Academy Opens At Richmond High School

RICHMOND (KCBS) - Something new and positive is happening to Richmond High, a school that's been beset by negative publicity. There is now an Engineering Academy on campus.

A new $60,000 computer lab where students are learning engineering principles and design represents a departure from the regular curriculum at Richmond High School.

KCBS' Dave Padilla Reports:

"I'm learning with them too, and this is a new experience for me as well," said teacher Aurillio Garcia. "So the students show me things I don't even know. It's amazing."

More than 35 computers are placed around the room. Students—some of whom were considering dropping out—are already thinking about their careers.

"I plan on becoming an engineer in computer technology," said one student, who added that he thinks the program is giving him a good start.

Project Lead the Way, a national educational nonprofit, designed the curriculum known as STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Duane Crum, the state director of the program, says the sky is the limit.

"We're all about preparing kids for those high wage, high demand jobs that are still out there," he said.

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