As students move closer to the STAAR, AP, SAT and ACT testing of the spring, the amount of free time they have is slowly fading away.

The Catalyst Teen Center is providing high school students with free opportunities to spend their free time enjoying themselves while also learning a new skill.

The program of free classes, titled the Academy of Awesome, began Mar. 19. The program includes activities such as archery, mixed martial arts, film, guitar, babysitter certification, CSI, and mixed activities just for boys and girls.

The Academy of Awesome is a program that helps teens realize talents they never thought they would have and is one of 40 different programs offered by the Catalyst Teen Center.

If students want to get ahead of the stressful section of the school year, the summer internships which teach leadership skills and provide community service opportunities offered by the center may be a better option.

To sign up and read more about these opportunities, visit http://catalystteencenter.com/.