Start a NAF Academy Interest

Year of Planning

The Year of Planning is designed for schools with limited experience in creating career-focused pathways. This developmental process provides personalized support and technical assistance to align your programming goals with the NAF Design before the academy launches. The planning phase typically lasts one school year but can range from 6 to 18 months. This approach establishes a sustainable foundation for academic success and enhances your capacity to fulfill commitments to students and the community.

Fast Track

The Fast Track program offers an accelerated path to NAF membership for existing career academies that already meet most NAF standards, or are NCAC or Linked Learning Certified, and seek full membership benefits. This streamlined process typically lasts 3 months and involves gathering documentation to demonstrate alignment with the NAF Design, enabling an expedited academy launch.

Are career academies a part of the district/school strategy for school improvement?

Yes No

Can the district/school commit resources to start a NAF academy (e.g., financial, human capital)?

Yes No

Does the district/school have support from local business, community, civic, and government entities?

Yes No

Does the district/school support an open choice enrollment based on student interest rather than academic or disciplinary records?

Yes No

Does the district/school have the capacity and interest to support NAFTrack Certification?

Yes No

Does the district/school support work-based learning opportunities that allow high school students to connect their classroom experiences to college and career opportunities?

Yes No

Does the district/school support career-connected project-based learning experiences that combine hands-on, real-world projects with career exploration and preparation?

Yes No

Can the district/school commit to recruitment efforts resulting in at least 20 students per grade?

Yes No

Note: Schools are encouraged to enhance their capacity to meet these standards before proceeding with the application process. All applications are subject to approval..

Ready to start the application process?

Career Pathway(s) of Interest

Provide additional information or feedback that might be useful

NAF career academy

Check this box to confirm your interest in starting a NAF academy. Upon submission, we will contact you to:
• Discuss membership and partnership alignment.
• Develop a Membership Agreement outlining shared expectations, benefits, and service fees.

Start a NAF Academy: Interest Survey

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Fund a Future

Start a NAF Academy: Interest Survey

Ready to start the application process?

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Fund a Future