by Wicked Local Georgetown
Gov. Charlie Baker has designated Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill as a model early college program for its partnership with Lawrence High School.
NECC is one of nine programs to receive the official seal of approval at state level. Merrimack College, which also works with Lawrence High School, was also recognized.
NECC has received a $140,000 implementation grant.
Early college programs combine traditional high school classes with college courses through a local public college or university to give high school students knowledge and exposure to an area of study. Students can earn up to 12 college credits -- equivalent to one semester -- for free.
“Boosting the number of early college programs in the Commonwealth is a priority for our administration that will provide more students with an opportunity to attend and complete college,” said Baker. “Exposing high school students to college courses in a field that interests them, and offering college credits at no cost, will make the transition to college easier and better prepare many students for successful careers following their education.”
The nine programs were selected granted designation status after a one-year selection process.
Programs were selected for official designation based on five principles: equitable access for all students, guided academic pathways, enhanced student supports, relevant connection to career and deep partnerships between high schools, community colleges and state universities.
Marielis Almanzar, a 2017 graduate of Lawrence High School, was part of the first group of students to graduate with early college credits. Almanzar graduated from high school with six college credits and is currently enrolled in the Liberal Arts Program: Psychology option at NECC with plans to transfer to UMass Boston or UMass Amherst after earning her associate degree.