A first-of-its-kind opportunity from Mid-State is now coming to Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH). Mid-State Technical College and the Stevens Point Area School District have partnered to launch the Business Management Academy, giving high school students the chance to earn a full associate degree in Business Management and real-world business experience, all before graduation.
The new opportunity will be available starting fall 2026, ensuring participating SPASH students are job-ready in management, entrepreneurship and human resources when they graduate, while saving time and money toward their future education.
The new academy represents the second associate of applied science (AAS) degree program launched within the Mid-State district in partnership with local high schools. The Business Management Academy at Lincoln High School will also begin in fall 2026, demonstrating a growing movement across the region to bring higher education pathways directly into high schools.
Ben Nusz, dean of Mid-State’s School of Business & IT and Stevens Point Downtown Campus, emphasized the broader vision. “By bringing the Business Management Academy to both SPASH and WRPS, we’re creating a unified opportunity for students across our district,” Nusz said. “This program is more than just early college credit—it’s about empowering young people to see themselves as future leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals while they’re still in high school. They will graduate high school ready for jobs in our community.”
“Our district is committed to creating opportunities that prepare students for the future,” said SPASH Superintendent Dr. Cory Hirsbrunner. “The Business Management Academy gives SPASH students a unique advantage by combining academic rigor with practical experience, while also strengthening our community partnerships with Mid-State.”
The Business Management Academy at SPASH reflects Mid-State’s commitment to innovative high school-to-college pathways that connect local talent to central Wisconsin’s workforce needs while helping families save on college costs.
For more information visit mstc.edu/business-academy or contact the SPASH counseling office.
