Lemon Bay High School just rolled out a brand-new cybersecurity classroom, and it is giving students a real shot at learning the ins and outs of computer security and network defense before they even finish high school.
The district marked the opening with a ribbon-cutting, and it’s all part of a push to give students practical career paths, funded at both the local and state level. Dr. Brian Granstra, who heads up career and technical education in Charlotte County, made it clear: the goal is to get students workforce-ready.
“We’re doing this so students can get the best experience,” Granstra said. “We want that ‘wow’ factor. We want them to enjoy every second and leave fully prepared for what’s next. When they graduate, we want to see them step right into good jobs.”
The new classroom doesn’t feel like a typical school setup. It’s styled to look like a real cybersecurity office: rows of monitors, big TV screens, and plenty of tech to go around. Students start out learning the basics, like how to protect digital information, how networks function, how to keep data secure.
When sophomore Shayne Chery walked in, she felt amazed. “I didn’t expect any of this. So many TVs, these gaming chairs, all these monitors—it’s honestly really cool.”
Cybersecurity teacher D’uane Howard can’t get over the transformation, either. “Last year, the place didn’t look anything like this. To walk in now and see all this—sometimes, I can’t believe it. I’m excited to come to work every day.”
He also pointed out how the space gives students more chances to connect directly with community professionals. “Now that this room is set up the way it is, students get more chances to work with people locally and in nearby areas.”
District leaders see more on the horizon, too. Students who go through this program can earn industry-recognized certifications and keep building their skills, even moving on to places like Charlotte Technical College to continue their training.
For more information about Lemon Bay High School, click here.
