Thornton Academy participates in the Maine Career Advantage Program (MCAP). Coordinated by the Maine Technical College System, MCAP provides internship opportunities for varying lengths of time.

A two-year internship combines work experience and applied academics during your senior year at Thornton and first year at a technical college.

Career internships are offered in more than twenty career areas, including banking, computer and office technology, electromechanical maintenance and culinary arts.

A competitive selection process begins in the spring of your junior or senior year when you prepare applications, resumes and portfolios. If a business offers you a position, your internship could begin in the summer, working forty hours a week.

During the school year, you will alternate between school and your work site, gaining experience, skills, academic credit, college tuition credit and a stipend.

A student successfully completing two years receives a Certificate of Skill Mastery. You are then in an excellent position to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree or enter a chosen field. Thornton students have had successful internships at UNUM, Northern Utilities, the Marriott, GG Direct, Smith Elliott Smith & Garmey PA, and the City of Saco.

Summer and semester internships provide career exploration opportunities at local businesses. Positions last about eight weeks and you receive a stipend. The process is also competitive, with students receiving a certificate of participation upon successful completion.

MCAP representatives will be at Thornton in Spring 2003 to speak with interested students, or see your guidance counselor for information.