Your parents probably told you saying “please” and “thank you” would take you far. But one Lowcountry school is actually implementing those kinds of lessons into their curriculum and they believe it's a huge part of their students' success.
There's an art to the approach at the Beaufort Jasper Academy for Career Excellence that you don't find at every other high school. They provide core academics and vocational skills that never go out of style.
“They know that they always have a job- everybody has to eat,” Culinary Arts Director Erin Moore said.
They also serve as a confidence builder and often a second chance or saving grace.
"I was so happy because I was like, how would they accept a student like me?” 16-year-old Stephanie Washington said.
Like several students there, Washington’s behavior record was pretty thick at her former school.
"I used to always get in trouble for being disrespectful toward adults and everything,” Washington said.
And with hopes of working in the medical field, she knew she needed a change. Surprised but relieved, ACE accepted her.
"We work with them because we know everybody deserves an opportunity to become a better person and change, so we stress that through out career choices and our life skill classes,” ACE’s Gerri Henderson said.
And according to Stephanie Washington, the system works.
"One because of my teacher Ms. Price- she teaches us to be respectful and not be disobedient,” Washington said.
But mostly, Price and others here help the teens recognize the potential that comes from better living.
"I knew I had to change a lot,” Washington said.
Right now, ACE is in its recruitment process for the next school year. They will have more than 300 spaces for Beaufort and Jasper County students. To get more information about the school or schedule a tour, call 843-987-8107.
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