The Academy of Life Science at Southern Lee High School strives to provide the foundational medical knowledge needed to successfully pursue a career in the healthcare field. In high school, students learn medical terminology, enhance their understanding of all of the body systems, and do hands-on projects to develop a better understanding of how the body works. They also do service projects to involve themselves into the Lee County community while educating others and themselves. The Teddy Bear Fair is one example of an annual project that requires the academy students to educate the elementary youth with the help of the children’s favorite stuffed toy. This helps the kids become familiar with certain medical procedures they may see or experience such as an x-ray test. Commencing a blood drive is another event the Academy hosts to raise money and support their local hospitals blood supply.
Students also take college and career field trips throughout the year to familiarize themselves with their options and to have a better idea of what life could possibly be like after high school. Academy students have gone to community colleges like Sandhills or CCCC; as well as colleges like UNCG. The group takes career tours to places like the local hospital so students can ask questions and learn about their prospective careers. To prepare for these careers, students are able to obtain their OSHA certification and CPR training. Overall, the Academy of Life Science is an enjoyable and interactive way for students to better understand the medical field while still in their current highschool level.