A Closer Look: Academy of Hospitality and Tourism (AOHT)
Strengthening Foundations with Local Partnerships
MAPCS Career Academy prides itself on a partnership network that brings real-world experiences into the classroom and students into the professional world via work site tours, job shadowing, and high-level internships. These collaborations give our students unique insights into the hospitality and business sectors through practical experiences and mentoring opportunities. Our esteemed local and national partners include:
- NAF: Leveraging a nationwide network to support educational programs designed to build future-ready skills.
- Urban Land Institute Washington/The Women’s Leadership Initiative: Empowering students with leadership skills and knowledge in urban development and hospitality.
- Prestigious Hospitality Brands: Offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the workings of world-class hospitality establishments including the Thompson Hotel, Pendry Hotel, The Moxy Hotel, Marriott International, and Donohoe Hospitality.
- Destination DC and The American Experience Foundation: Providing a local perspective on destination management and the importance of tourism in the economy.
- Knead Hospitality: Delving into the culinary arts and restaurant management with hands-on experiences.
- Junior Achievement of Greater Washington (JA): Engaging in a pilot program to implement the first in-school JA program. JA is typically a 13-week after-school curriculum. MAPCS Business Academy will be the first to integrate it into the CTE classroomenvironment.
 Expanding Horizons with International Partnerships
To ensure our students gain a global perspective, we also partner with international organizations and businesses, including:
- Beachcombers Hotel St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department, Hairouna UUber Investments: These partnerships allow students to explore hospitality in different cultural contexts and to understand the global impact of tourism and conservation efforts.
Enhanced Curriculum Offering
We have designed our curriculum to provide a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on real-world applicability:
- OSSE Sponsored Programs
- High-level internship opportunities include the Advanced Internship Program (October through May) and Career Readiness Internships (Summer).
- Advance Technical Center offers dual enrollment and certification opportunities for CTE.
- Core CoursesÂ
- Offering a deep dive into the Principles of Hospitality and Tourism, Travel and Tourism Management, Principles of Business, Marketing, Finance, Hotel Management, and Entrepreneurship.
CAREER PATHWAYS UNVEILED
Graduates of our program are well-equipped for a wide range of careers, reflecting the diverse nature of the hospitality and business industries:
- From Hotel Management to IT, Arts and Culture to Real Estate, and Restaurants and Food Service to Sports and Entertainment.
- Careers in Transportation, Accounting and Marketing, Nursing and Engineering, and Architecture are also within reach, showcasing the program’s versatility.
PROGRAM ENHANCEMENTS AND SUPPORT
We offer a comprehensive support system and enhancements to ensure our students are well-prepared for their academic and professional futures:
- Interactive Coursework: Engaging and challenging material prepares students for the complexities of their future careers.
- Global Learning Opportunities: With field trips and work-based learning experiences nationally and internationally.
- Dedicated Support Services: Academic support, college application assistance, resume and job preparation support.
- Exclusive Opportunities: High-level internships and college tours offer glimpses into the professional world and higher education landscapes.
WORK-BASED LEARNING EXPLAINED
Work-based learning is at the core of our curriculum, a method that blends classroom theory with practical, hands-on experience. Taking this approach helps prepare students for the realities of their future careers, providing them with valuable insights, skills, and direct industry engagement.
Connect With Us
For more information about our CTE program and to explore how we can support your educational journey, please contact:
- Leroy Nickie, CTE Manager: lnickie@seeforever.org
- Tanisha Brown, CTE Program Associate: tbrown@seeforever.org
Embark on a journey of discovery, learning, and success with us. We have meticulously designed our program to open new doors to your future, arming you with the knowledge, skills, and experiences you need to achieve your dreams and make a lasting impact in the world of Hospitality, Tourism, and Entrepreneurship & Business.