Ferndale Schools: Free College Credits

By: Blake Prewitt, Superintendent, Ferndale Public Schools

In partnership with Baker College, Ferndale Schools will launch its Early College starting next year. Students at both Fern- dale High School and University High School will be eligible for the program and the chance to earn a free Associate’s Degree fromBaker.

An Early College is a program within a school that allows for students to earn both high school and college credit at the same time (up to 60 total transferable credits and/or an Associate’s Degree) and includes a “fifth year” of high school, with the majority of courses in the last year held on the college partner campus (also known as “13th Year”). The college credits earned while in the Early College are completely free to students.

“Ferndale Schools couldn’t be more excited to offer such a great program like our new Early College. Research shows that Early College students are significant- ly more likely to graduate from high school and are significantly more likely to earn a college degree than comparison students. Being able to offer 60 college credits to our students for free is a great opportunity for our families,” said Ferndale Schools Board of Education President Jim O’Donnell

As part of the Early College, students will have a choice of four pathways for an Associate’s Degree awarded from Baker College; Computer Programming, Criminal Justice (in partnership with the Ferndale Police Department, which includes Police Academy option after 13th year), Marketing, and Health Sciences. Students who apply for the program and are accepted will choose their pathway in their sophomore year. Courses can start as early as 9th or 10th grade, with the formal program begin- ning in the 11th grade year; courses include general course work and specific pathway electives.

“Baker College of Auburn Hills is pleased to be selected as Ferndale’s higher education partner in this exciting Early College initiative. As Michigan’s largest independent post-secondary institution, Baker College has a long history of successfully preparing students for employable careers. We are excited to be able to bring these opportunities to the students of Ferndale through this innovative program,” said Pete Karsten, Campus President, Baker College of Auburn Hills.

As part of the agreement between Ferndale Schools and Baker College, there is also an opportunity for students not enrolled in the Early College to earn some college credit. So while this is a fantastic opportunity for students who enroll in the Early College, it is also a chance for all students to accelerate their futures.

www.ferndaleschools.org