Early College

Early college programs blend high school and college in a rigorous, yet supportive program, that gives students the opportunity to extend high school for one year in order to earn two years' worth of college credit. These programs are based on the principle that academic rigor, when combined with the opportunity to save time and money, is a powerful motivator for students to work hard and meet serious intellectual challenges.

Students receive special support to help improve their academic performance as they complete both high school and college coursework and secure their future education and career-related goals. College costs including registration and technology fees, and textbooks are covered.

Since 2002, the partner organizations of the Early College High School Initiative have started or redesigned 240+ schools, serving more than 75,000 students in 28 states and the District of Columbia. The schools are designed to serve young people who are traditionally underrepresented in higher education, such as low-income youth, first-generation college-goers, English Language Learners, and students of color so they can simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an Associate’s degree or up to two years of credit—tuition-free.

In collaboration with local community colleges, OAISD facilitates Early College programs with a number of partner school districts throughout its service region and includes a career and technical education focused program through Careerline Tech Center.

North Ottawa County Early College

Partner: Muskegon Community College

Member School Districts: Allendale, Coopersville, Grand Haven, Spring Lake

South Ottawa County Early College

Partner: Muskegon Community College

Member School Districts: Hamilton, Holland, Saugatuck, West Ottawa