(ABC 6 News) – An A for Austin, an A on the report card and an A in student’s future, that’s what leaders say Austin High School is all about.

The Minnesota Department of Education heard directly from students and staff about school programs like the CEO program which allows juniors and seniors to develop public speaking skills and learn how to start a business and their future while still in high school.

Greg Kieth with MDE says allowing a student to learn what they want to learn is vital to their success.

“That’s real-world learning for kids. And that’s setting them up on a pathway for their adulthood and that’s the most important learning kids can get,” said Kieth.

MDE leaders also spoke with students in the other programs and had a tour of the MacPhail Center for Music.