Health Care Innovation Academy in partnership with The Pearl
Cabarrus County Schools and The Pearl Innovation District Announce Partnership

Launching the Nation’s First Workforce-Aligned Health Care Innovation Microschool
Cabarrus County Schools (CCS) and Atrium Health’s The Pearl innovation district are teaming up to create a groundbreaking new program — the Health Care Innovation Academy at Jay M. Robinson High School.
What Families Should Know
- Opening Fall 2026: The first class will include 30 freshmen and 30 sophomores.
- Part of Program Choice: Students can apply through CCS’ Program Choice options through December 14th at 11:59 PM.
- Focus Areas: Artificial intelligence and health care technology — two fast-growing fields.
- Unique Model: The microschool blends traditional high school classes with hands-on, real-world experiences.
Learning in Action
- Students will take core classes like Math I, English I, and Civics — all taught through a health care lens.
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses will include data analytics and artificial intelligence.
- Each course is being co-designed with industry experts at Advocate Health (which Atrium Health is a part) to match real workforce needs.
- Students will take part in weekly field experiences at The Pearl innovation district, working alongside professionals on real health care challenges.


Why It Matters
This new microschool brings together:
- Industry demand for skilled workers in health care and technology.
- Community commitment from The Pearl and local workforce partners.
- Student interest in careers that make a difference in people’s lives.
In Their Words
Dr. John Kopicki, Superintendent, Cabarrus County Schools:
“The health care innovation academy at Robinson represents the next evolution of public education in Cabarrus County. By connecting students directly with industry experts and real-world problem solving, we’re ensuring they graduate ready for both college and career.”
Dr. Richard Cox, STEM Program Coordinator, The Pearl:
“By connecting young people with health and science careers they might not have known existed, we’re preparing them not only for the workforce of tomorrow but inspiring them to lead it.”
Sarah Reeves, Chief Academic Officer, Cabarrus County Schools:
“We’re thrilled to bring high school students and industry leaders together to explore the power of artificial intelligence in health care. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, community, and the future of work.”
Erin Milam, Principal, Jay M. Robinson High School:
“At Robinson, our microschool reflects our belief that every student deserves a learning experience as unique as they are. Together with The Pearl, we’re reimagining education through innovation, connection, and opportunity—because at Robinson, #BulldogsBelong.”
How to Learn More
Please consider attending the scheduled Open House to learn more about this exciting new opportunity on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM at Jay M. Robinson High School!
 
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