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Steps for Starting a NAF Academy

As a NAF academy member, you’ll be part of a national movement to ensure that all high school students are college, career, and future ready.
Start a NAF Academy / Steps for Starting a NAF Academy

NAF promotes full district engagement in creating NAF academies to maximize successful and sustained academy development. The annual membership fee is $2,000 per academy, with multi-academy discount rates available. To learn more about NAF’s admissions process, contact Jennifer Geisler, Director of Emerging Academies.
Applications subject to approval.

Get Started and Apply:

Step 1

Choose an Admissions Program

We offer two admissions options: the Year of Planning program and Fast Track program. Explore the admissions options in our Academy Support Hub, then use the Interest Survey as a guide to assess readiness to start a NAF academy!

Step 2

Build an Academy Design Team

Form a multi-disciplinary team with a shared vision to establish a career academy that aligns with the district’s goals in partnership with NAF.
Academy Design Team Prep Guide

Step 3

Secure Funding and Community Support

  • Review budget considerations and grant opportunities
  • Engage business and community leaders and research local workforce development needs
Partners, volunteers, and students bring their hands together to cheer on the team
An education leader gives a high five to a student

Step 4

Ensure Mission and Vision Alignment

  • Review NAF academy standards
  • Explore membership benefits
  • Tour a NAF academy near you
    • View Membership Pricing

    Step 5

    Confirm Team Leadership & Apply!

  • Identify a dedicated team committed to establishing a NAF academy
  • Secure necessary resources
  • Then, start your application by completing our interest survey:
    • Start Your Application
    An educator writes questions on a large notepad about improving work-based learning for their NAF academy

    Have questions? Our Emerging Academies team is happy to help!

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