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The Cobb County School District officially celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its second Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA), located at Allatoona High School, marking another significant investment in preparing students for high-demand careers.
The state-of-the-art facility expands career-focused educational opportunities for Cobb students by offering hands-on learning experiences, industry-recognized certifications, internships, and direct pathways into college and the workforce.
The new academy features four career pillars:
- Aviation
- Healthcare
- Skilled Trades
- Advanced Computing
Students enrolled at CITA will learn from instructors with real-world industry experience while gaining practical skills aligned with Cobb County’s workforce needs.
“This facility represents our commitment to preparing students for high-skill, high-demand, high-wage careers,” said Dr. Tiffany Barney, Executive Director of the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy. “Our students have access to incredible opportunities that allow them to explore their passions while earning valuable certifications and workplace experience before they graduate.”
The academy was made possible through voter-approved SPLOST funding and strong partnerships with local businesses, higher education institutions, and community organizations, including Wellstar Health System, Chattahoochee Technical College, Cobb EMC, NAPA, Evergreen Construction, and DLR Group.
Superintendent Chris Ragsdale emphasized that the new academy demonstrates the district’s commitment to ensuring every student has a pathway to success.
“Student success looks different for every child,” Ragsdale said. “Whether students choose college, technical education, military service, or enter the workforce immediately after graduation, CITA provides the tools and certifications they need to succeed.”
The Allatoona campus will welcome 116 students during its inaugural year, joining nearly 500 students already enrolled at the original CITA campus at Osborne High School.
District leaders noted the academy is designed not only to benefit students but also to strengthen Cobb County’s future workforce by aligning educational programs with regional industry needs.
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