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Imagine Academy presenters tell Senate panel digital certifications boost Arkansas students’ career readiness
Summary
Microsoft and CertiPort representatives told the Senate Education Committee that Imagine Academy certifications (office productivity, IT and computer-science tracks) increase student engagement and employability; Arkansas has 343 site licenses and ranks among the top three states in year-over-year certification growth, presenters said.
Microsoft and CertiPort representatives told the Arkansas Senate Education Committee that the Imagine Academy certification program helps students move from classroom learning to paid work by providing industry-recognized credentials.
"Close to, you know, 90% of businesses in The United States run their businesses on Microsoft technology," a Microsoft presenter said, arguing that familiar enterprise software makes the certifications broadly relevant to employers. The presenters described Imagine Academy as a package of curriculum, CertiPort testing and professional development that can be layered onto existing high-school courses.
Mike, an Imagine Academy representative, told the committee Arkansas was an…
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