Effingham Regional Career Academy Evolves to Become CORE Academy
Foundation News December 12, 2024
EFFINGHAM, IL December 12, 2024 — The Effingham Regional Career Academy today announced its evolution to CORE Academy, marking a strategic transformation that better reflects its expansive regional presence and comprehensive approach to career education. The rebranding reinforces the institution’s commitment to delivering essential skills-based education to both high school and adult learners across central Illinois.
“Our new identity as CORE Academy better represents who we are and the communities we serve,” said Jami Sidwell, Board President of the Effingham Regional Career Foundation, parent organization of CORE Academy. “While our name is changing, our fundamental mission remains unchanged: providing high-quality, trade-focused education that prepares students for successful careers in high-demand industries. The new name, CORE Academy, stands for Career Opportunities for Regional Employment.”
The CORE Academy, which serves communities within a 50-mile radius of Effingham, has established itself as a premier provider of technical and career education. The new CORE Academy name also reflects several key aspects of the institution’s identity:
- Community-focused education reaching beyond traditional boundaries
- Opportunities for both high school and adult learners
- Real-world skills development aligned with industry needs
- Excellence in technical and trade education
The rebranding comes at a time of growing demand for skilled trade professionals across central Illinois. CORE Academy will continue to offer its full range of established programs while working to expand its reach and impact throughout the region.
“This evolution to CORE Academy opens new doors for collaboration with communities throughout our service area,” said Sidwell. “Our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality trade education remains steadfast, and this change better positions us to serve the diverse needs of our entire region.”
Current students and programs will experience no disruption during this transition. The Academy will continue to maintain its high standards of education while working to enhance its offerings and partnerships across the region. Beginning in Fall 2025, courses will be conducted primarily in the new Effingham Technology Center located on Althoff Drive in Effingham.
