by KYW’s Dr. Marciene Mattleman

Early college high schools blend high school and college, compressing the time to complete a high school diploma and the first two years of college. Since 2002, partner organizations have started or redesigned more than 200 schools in 24 states and Washington, DC.

The schools are designed so that first generation college goers, those from low income families, English language learners, students of color and other underrepresented young people in higher education can earn an Associate’s degree in two years or work toward a Bachelor’s degree tuition free. In 2009, 85% of students graduated and 65% of the students were accepted to four year colleges nationwide.

While the goal is for everyone to complete the 60 necessary credits for the Associate’s degree, the average early-college student graduates with only about 22 credits, less than a year’s coursework with only 11% graduating with the degree.

The movement is growing and both the Internet and the article in the Hechingerreport.org of the efforts at Hostos-Lincoln in New York City describe expectations, problems and successes and provide a good picture for those planning to attend or develop an early college program.