Roy Supports Early College Programs

In the United States, "Early College" programs allow students to receive a high school diploma and an associate degree, or up to two years of college credit, by taking a mixture of high school and college classes. Designed for students traditionally underrepresented in college, the programs differ from dual enrollment, by the intentional supports provided to students. These supports help students to prepare to take dual credit classes while in high school and be ready for the rigorous college work after they graduate from high school. It is a concept that has gained momentum and support from big-time philanthropists. But in Massachusetts, the movement is still getting off the ground.

In March, State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin) participated in and spoke at an Early College Legislative Briefing at the State House in Boston. The annual event brought together about 400 school students and program partners from across the Commonwealth.

A persistent advocate for Early College, Representative Roy re-empathized his goal of making college in high school one of his legislative priorities as it will provide exceptional educational opportunities for students to get a credential beyond a diploma while still in high school. Rep. Roy is further supporting these by filing House Bill 1455 “An Act relative to college in high school.”

Early College programs have helped close achievement gaps in low-income families sand aided students in attaining their goals without any additional cost to the student’s families. This program was launched in 2018, and since its inception has bolstered the education of about 8,237 students according to Massachusetts statistics. This has led to increased enrollment in higher education with a rise of about 20% more students enrolling in college in comparison to students who do not utilize the classes provided by the Early College Program.

“Students who participate in this fully structured program receive enhanced academic and guidance support that allows them to graduate high school with a significant number of college credits already completed,” said  Roy. “These students enter college with well-established study habits and skills that give them the confidence to know that they can succeed in college regardless of any socio-economic challenges that they may face. Low- income students who participated in Early College high school programs are twice as likely to complete post-secondary degrees.”

Early college credits benefit not only individual students but the health and vigor of the Commonwealth as well. In Massachusetts, median wages for full-time employees are 67% higher for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and 28% higher for associate degree holders than for high school graduates. Families that thrive financially in Massachusetts pave the way for the success of each successive generation, potentially lifting entire communities out of poverty.

Rep. Roy added, “We must build on our success to date and provide even more robust college in high school experiences throughout the Commonwealth. H.1455 provides robust opportunities for students -- no matter their background or identity -- to take college courses in high school, engage in self-discovery, and develop a mindset for success. And we will continue to pursue these opportunities to give our students what they need to succeed.”