Robert L. Bland Middle School’s business computer applications class prepares students for future

Beyond technical training, the class introduces key business principles such as entrepreneurship, financial literacy and professional communication. Through interactive lessons and real-world projects, students gain practical knowledge that prepares them for high school and future careers.

"Business Computer Applications I (BCA I) is a yearlong high school computer course that focuses on learning Microsoft Office applications to create professional documents, presentations and spreadsheets," said Thomas Akers, BCA I teacher.

"Each year, incoming eighth-grade students at RLBMS are selected to participate in the course, and after successfully completing the course, they will earn a high school credit."

"Students have the opportunity to prepare and earn Microsoft Office Specialist certifications and compete against other middle school, high school and college students throughout the state."

Akers said students enjoy the class for various reasons.

"I think students enjoy the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge using Microsoft Office applications while learning business concepts," he said.

The course offers many long-term benefits, Akers said.

"I explain to my students that technology skills are essential to their success throughout life. Technology skills are necessary, and oftentimes required, for most jobs or careers," he said.

"Learning these skills at a young age will help students be successful in middle school, high school, college, and employment."

As an educator, Akers said he strives to ensure his students leave the classroom with a deep understanding of technology and its practical applications.

"My goal is that students will understand the importance of technology and how to use it effectively and efficiently, and they will leave my classroom prepared to be successful in high school, college and employment," he said.

He believes students are drawn to his teaching style for several reasons, Akers said.

"I think most students appreciate the challenge of learning new skills in my classes. I always strive to make my classes fun, interactive, and applicable," he said.

"Students are always welcome in my classroom, and I will always do my best to help them be successful, even after they move on to high school."

Eighth-grade student Carly Singleton said she enjoys the class.

"I like BCA I because of how engaging it is. Although you're typically seated in front of a screen or watching tutorial videos, Mr. Akers brings the class forward, showing us tips and tricks to making it less complex," she said.

She decided to take the class upon Akers' request, Singleton said.

"I decided to take BCA I because I felt that it was a great opportunity to go ahead and knock a high school credit out. I felt privileged to be asked by Mr. Akers to be a part of a high school class," she said.

"When I told Mr. Akers I was willing to commit to be a part of this class, I had a feeling of accomplishment knowing by the end of my eighth-grade year I would not only have a high school credit, but I would gain knowledge about Microsoft and acquire a few certifications under my belt." 

Singleton also couldn't say enough good things about Mr. Akers.

"I would like to start off by saying how extraordinary of a human Thomas Akers is. I am unfortunate enough that I was not privileged to be assigned to any of his keyboarding classes in previous years," she said.

"Eighth-grade was a change for the better, having the advantage to take BCA I! Every afternoon walking into this class you immediately feel overjoyed by the smile Mr. Akers brings every day. His enthusiasm for the class he is teaching makes the knowledge more of a pleasure to be learning," she said.

"Akers' compassion and generosity to his students never goes unnoticed. If you're not feeling like yourself, Mr. Akers always notices, maybe he cheers you up by simply asking if you are OK or maybe you have the benefit of getting to hear one of his 'hilarious' dad jokes," she said.

"I am one lucky student to have grown close with Mr. Akers; he is the sun on rainy days, and the laughter I always need to enlighten me! A day never fails where it's not 'A party in BCA.'"