Developing an Early College High School program at San Jacinto College

Challenge

How might we better support our local K-12 system by developing an early college high school that allows students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree?

Strategy

Seven-pronged effort: 

  • Developed a long-term path for developing an Early College High School (ECHS) program
  • Located seven of the eight ECHS on the college’s campuses
  • Partnered with local school districts
  • Embedded eight San Jacinto College advisors in high schools during school year
  • Let advisors help high school seniors enroll in college, select courses, apply for financial aid, take placement tests, and interpret test scores
  • Encouraged students to complete advanced high school course work in addition to college-level courses
  • Offered discounted San Jacinto College tuition for students participating in an ECHS

Outcome

In addition to discounted dual-credit programs, San Jacinto College now supports the K-12 system through sustained investments in four ECSHs and shared educational advisors.

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Institution

Enrollment

28,326

Pell Recipients

28%

Students of Color

73%

Net cost of Attendance

$7,677