No. The cohort model we are employing and the sequential nature of the Academy’s courses and work based learning experiences and are only working with currently enrolled students who will graduate in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The new AOHT will be based at Concord High School starting the school year of 2021.

The Academy is run under an open enrollment structure.  If more applications are received than space allows, all spaces will be filled by means of a random drawing.

Yes. Academy students are free to choose from all of he course offerings available at Hickory Ridge HighSchool.  

All of the Academy courses are only 9 week (1/2 semester) courses so two courses are completed in the same amount of time as aregular semester long course. Academy students will take their two NAF academy courses back to back in one semester, allowing for another 7 blocks to take all of their other courses. 

Cabarrus County Schools require all students to complete at least a  four credit electives sequence in one of 19 different pathways.  By enrolling in the Academy,  your student’s four credit sequence in Hospitality and Tourism is mapped out from day one. 

In addition to the project based curriculum that integrates core classes into the learning process, students will learn from our partners in the industry.  Students will host guest speakers from businesses and higher education as well as visiting local businesses and venues for behind the scene access. 

We also will have academy fundraisers to help offset the cost of academy field trips and site visits.  All academy students will be asked to participate in 3-4 community service projects both in and outside of HRHS, as a way to give back to our local community. 

Students will also engage in jobshadowing opportunities to explore careers of interest.  We also highly encourage academy juniors and seniors complete their 80-120 hour paid internship to get NAF Track certified by the time they graduate. 

Students can join the academy their rising ninth grade year even if they are outside of the Hickory Ridge school zone.  You will need to fill out an application with the county before the deadline that is specified.  If you choose to leave the academy for any reason you will be moved back to your zoned school.  Transportation is not provided for students that choose to come here outside of the Hickory Ridge zone.  Parents are expected to have their child here before school and be able to arrange pick up after.  HOWEVER, starting the 2021-22 school year, the Academy of Hospitality & Tourism will be housed out of Concord High School and HRHS will start the Academy of Finance & Technology.  The current members of the HRHS AOHT will be allowed to stay at HRHS to complete the program until their graduating year, as long as they meet the program's guidelines.