It may be summer, but that won't keep Cumberland Academy of Georgia students from learning. Already, the students have taken a trip to the University of Georgia's Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island. "This trip was an amazing experience for our students," says Debbi Scarborough, headmaster and founding director of Cumberland Academy of Georgia. "They were given the opportunity for the ultimate experiential learning by combing seashores, feeding aquarium marine life, and utilizing microscopes and other lab equipment. Students learned a great deal about marine life in a very unique way."

The students went on a behind the scenes tour of the aquarium and were taught while examining and feeding the live creatures. They also searched the beach for marine life and shells and went on a boat ride around the island to learn about the ecosystem from a rare perspective.

Additionally, students from the special needs school have been creating resumes, participating in mock interviews and interviewing for jobs that will in some cases continue throughout the school year. Students have been hired by the local Homewood Suites and Chick fil-A Perimeter location. While these jobs are paying jobs, other students have been given the opportunity to interview and volunteer at a local YMCA. The staff at the YMCA will train students and place them in areas which emphasize the students' natural ability. Students will receive real work experience while volunteering their time.

"We created a new partnership with Homewood Suites, Chick-fil-A and the YMCA because we want our students to thrive in the workplace. In order to thrive, they need the chance to learn work-related skills in a real workplace," says Scarborough. "These partnerships will offer Cumberland students training in life skills that can not be replicated in the classroom. The response from the staff has been very positive. We are so proud of our students and thrilled they were well prepared for these jobs."