Everett High seniors Suniel Soto Pol and Zachery Morelli display their CompTIA A+ National Certifications. They are pictured with, from left, Superintendent of Schools Frederick F. Foresteire, Everett High School Vice Principal Dr. Omar Easy, Everett High technology teacher Donna Marinelli,
Assistant Superintendent of Schools Charles Obremski, and Everett High School Principal Erick Naumann.
Thanks to a special partnership between the Everett Public Schools, the Cisco Networking Academy and Bunker Hill Community College, two Everett High School seniors are now certified to work as computer support technicians.
Zachery Morelli and Suniel Soto Pol took part in a satellite program that allowed them to create an account through the Cisco Networking Academy and receive the same training as an online college level course. They had access to the written material and hands-on applications and computer simulations that are essential for young students who are interested in a career in information technology.
The course Morelli and Soto Pol completed consists of 12 modules that they had to pass each with a grade of 80 percent before taking the national exams. Students learn to navigate the course, access assignments, and take test online for immediate feedback. Once students successfully complete the course, they take a CompTIA A+ National Certification Exam. Only 35 percent of first-time test takers pass both exams.
Everett High technology teacher Donna Marinelli oversees the satellite program, with the full financial support of the Everett School Committee.