Decatur Career Academy

https://app.smore.com/n/e06uj

The 2026–2027 school year is officially underway, and our CTAE family has hit the ground running. Walking through our halls and learning spaces, it is impossible not to feel the passion and ambition radiating from our classrooms.

Our pathways are designed to challenge minds and launch careers. Already, our students are demonstrating extraordinary talent in labs, executing technical skills with precision, and bringing ideas to life. Seeing them in action leaves no doubt in my mind, the future is in exceptionally good hands.

Moving Forward Together:

• Students: Take full advantage of every tool, project, and opportunity in front of you. Your dedication today is writing your success story for tomorrow.

• Parents & Families: Thank you for placing your trust in our programs.

• Community & Industry Partners: Thank you for opening your doors, sharing your expertise, and providing real world opportunities for our students. Your continued investment in our pathways bridges the gap between classroom learning and future careers.

We’ve set a phenomenal foundation over these past few weeks. Now, let’s carry this momentum forward, keep reaching higher, and make this our most impactful year yet!

With appreciation and excitement,

Terra Smiley

Career Academy Director

Decatur High School families are invited to register for the Emory University chapter of Girls Who Code! This free program introduces middle and high school students (Grades 6–12) to computer science in a fun, supportive environment.

• What They’ll Learn: Coding basics, web development, and inspiring histories of women in tech.

• Community Focus: Interactive icebreakers, hands-on projects, and mentorship from Emory students.

• Who Can Join: Open to all skill levels in grades 6–12.

Help empower the next generation of women in technology! Space is limited, so reserve your student's spot today.

Click Here to Complete the Girls Who Code 2026–27 Sign-Up Form

On Saturday September 12, 2026, Youth Mean Business is hosting a youth entrepreneurship conference and $10k pitch competition for middle and high school youth and the adults who support them. It will be a day of learning, growth and inspiration.

Who should attend?

• Youth Entrepreneurs in Grades 6-12

• Youth in Grades 6-12 that are interested in starting a business

• Parents/Caregivers of youth entrepreneurs

What to expect:

• 3 tailored tracks: Workshops for Youth Entrepreneurs, Aspiring Entrepreneurs and Parents/Caregivers
  
• Interactive sessions led by industry leaders covering topics such as AI, Marketing, Operations, Strategy
• Inspiration from Youth Entrepreneurs
• $10k Youth Pitch Competition for Grant Funding
  
• Community networking

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
  
• Venue: Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, 504 Fair Street SW, Atlanta GA
  
• Time: 8:30am - 4pm
  
• Registration: $25 (includes light refreshments and lunch). Scholarships are available. We are able to facilitate group registrations if needed. Otherwise, students can register directly on eventbrite here:
• Pitch Competition: Current Youth Entrepreneurs can apply to Pitch for up to $10,000 in grants here:
  
• Questions/Support: team@youthmeanbusiness.com

Our Culinary 1 students leveled up their kitchen game this week by mastering whole chicken fabrication! Using precise knife skills, they broke down whole chickens into usable cuts and saved the remaining parts to brew flavorful chicken stock. By freezing the meat and stock for future labs, our students learned a fundamental culinary technique while stocking up our pantry for the school year.

Check out these behind-the-scenes photos of our future chefs in action!

There are many students that are assisting with new Coffee Shop. They are learning to make coffee for the adults in the building. We are looking forward to advancing our coffee shop to include other items.

The DHS Architecture Club hosted architect Thomas Hardy from Arcus Studio where Mr. Hardy shared his journey in architecture while students participated in an in-depth discussion about the architecture profession.

Thank you to our industry partner and renowned architect Melody Harclerode from SPIKE Studio for speaking with our architecture students about the architecture, engineering, and construction professions and SPIKE Studio's Catalyst Program. The Catalyst Program offers dynamic, hands-on opportunities for middle and high school students to engage with industry professionals every third Saturday.