Early-Middle College High School seeking applicants
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on March 18, 2007 2:01 AM
Wayne Early-Middle College High School, one of Wayne County Public Schools' eight schools, is accepting applications for its freshman class, which will be added in the fall, as well as rising juniors.
The high school, launched in the fall of 2006, is located on the campus of Wayne Community College. There are 60 available seats for incoming freshmen and 20 slots available for juniors.
Students attending the school will finish their high school requirements with high school teachers. Elective credits will be college courses. Students will also have the opportunity to begin building a college transcript.
Under the "early college" concept, ninth-graders will complete the state's high school graduation requirements and have the opportunity to complete a two-year associate's degree or the college transfer program, allowing them to continue as a junior at a four-year university.
Applications will be accepted until March 23, with students to go through an interview process before being accepted. There is no charge to students for tuition or college textbooks. Transport-ation is provided to the school, which operates on a non-traditional daily schedule. Classes begin at 11 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. All coursework offered is at the honors level.
There will be an open house on March 22 at 6 p.m. in the college cafeteria for parents and students to learn more about the school concept. There will also be a tour and an opportunity to speak with current students and teachers.
Lee Johnson, principal, said the school is looking for students interested in being part of a non-traditional high school setting and want to get started on their college career. The emphasis there is on high academic standards, she said, as well as close relationships and innovative teaching styles.
"Students need to be responsible and dedicated to the goal before them," she said.
Wayne Early/Middle College is part of the national high school reform initiative. It was created as a partnership between Wayne Community College and Wayne County Public Schools, with only juniors and seniors at the outset. With the arrival of the freshman class, students will be able to complete their entire high school career on the college campus.
Staff positions for the program are also being recruited, officials said. In addition to hiring teachers in the areas of math, science, English and social studies, the school plans to hire a guidance counselor, work-based learning coordinator and college liaison position. Anyone interested in applying for a position is requested to contact the school at 735-5151.