“8 Exceptional Early College High Schools Setting Students up for Success”

Early college high schools are a unique and innovative approach to education that provide students with the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree or college credit simultaneously. These schools offer a challenging curriculum, supportive environments, and numerous benefits that can set students up for success in their future academic and professional pursuits. In this article, we will explore eight early college high schools that have gained recognition for their exceptional programs.

1. Bard High School Early College (BHSEC) in New York City is renowned for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum. Students at BHSEC complete their high school requirements by the end of 10th grade and spend the next two years focused on college-level courses. With small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and access to resources from Bard College, BHSEC provides an enriching experience for its students.

2. The Science Leadership Academy (SLA) in Philadelphia emphasizes project-based learning and technology integration. SLA encourages collaboration among students while fostering critical thinking skills necessary for success in higher education and beyond. Students also benefit from partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

3. North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM) is a highly competitive early college program located in Durham, North Carolina. NCSSM offers an intense STEM-focused curriculum designed to challenge academically gifted students who are passionate about science, mathematics, engineering, or technology.

4. Middle College High School at LaGuardia Community College in New York City caters to students who may face challenges within traditional educational settings by providing individualized attention and support services tailored to their needs. This early college program prepares students for careers or further education through internships, mentorship programs, and dual enrollment opportunities.

5.The Met Sacramento High School follows an innovative model where student interests drive the learning process. Learners engage with real-world projects related to their chosen career pathways while receiving personalized guidance from advisors known as “learning coaches.” This approach fosters independence, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship skills.

6. The Early College Academy at Houston Community College in Texas offers a variety of career pathways, including business, engineering, health sciences, and information technology. Students have the opportunity to earn certifications alongside their associate’s degree or college credit through partnerships with industry professionals.

7. Bard Early College New Orleans (BECNO) provides students in New Orleans with an early college experience that combines a liberal arts curriculum with community engagement initiatives. BECNO aims to empower students to become active citizens who positively impact their communities while preparing them for higher education.

8. P-Tech High School (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) is a collaborative effort between public schools and industry partners such as IBM. This program focuses on providing students with the skills necessary for success in STEM careers by offering coursework aligned with industry demands along with workplace experiences and mentorship opportunities.

Early college high schools provide an alternative approach to traditional education by combining high school and college-level coursework. These innovative programs offer numerous benefits including accelerated learning, exposure to real-world experiences, individualized attention, and opportunities for internships or work-based learning. As more educators recognize the value of early college programs, these eight schools are leading the way in providing exceptional educational opportunities for students seeking a head start on their academic journey