Vicksburg Warren School District

Vicksburg Warren School District freshmen are getting a head start on essential life skills thanks to a new Freshman Academy curriculum that blends career exploration with practical lessons for everyday life.

Last week, students in Introduction to Academy classes at Warren Central and Vicksburg High partnered with the district’s Transportation Department for a hands-on session in basic auto maintenance. Students learned how to check oil levels, measure tire pressure, and safely change a flat tire—skills that every driver needs.

“These are the kinds of things many students don’t get to practice until they’re in a real-life situation,” said Corey Wilson, Warren Central’s ACME Introduction to Academy teacher. “We want our students to leave high school with confidence not only in their academics, but in handling life’s everyday challenges.”

The auto maintenance lesson is one of many modules included in Freshman 101, a new component of the Freshman Academy designed to teach ninth graders essential life and career readiness skills.

In the Health and Human Services (HHS) Academy, students will learn practical lessons in personal health, such as how to schedule a doctor’s appointment, fill a prescription, and understand the importance of health insurance. They will also explore nutrition by designing healthy, budget-friendly school lunch menus.

Meanwhile, students in the Communications, Arts, and Business (CAB) Academy will take part in lessons on employment and financial literacy. Modules include practicing a professional handshake, completing job applications, learning how to pay bills, budgeting, and understanding savings accounts and retirement plans like 401(k)s.

District leaders say the Freshman Academy is about preparing students holistically for the future.

“Freshman year is such a critical transition point,” said Deborah Brown, VHS Intro to Academy instructor. “By embedding life skills into our academy curriculum, we’re ensuring students are building a strong foundation for high school, college, careers, and beyond.”