Abstract

The decline of the American High School has given rise to a new and bold initiative in the development of Early College High Schools. This promising approach for improving education for all works on the premise that small personalized learning communities and a coherent educational program helps students in building their academic identity thus bridging the gap between graduating from high school and entering and succeeding in college. Unlike the traditional high school, where the senior year is virtually wasted time for too many students, these new schools are designed so that all students can earn up to two years of college credit or an Associate’s degree in addition to their high school diploma. Secondary and postsecondary partners rethink traditional curriculum sequences, find creative ways to align and connect high school and college experiences, and provide the academic and social supports students need to succeed in an intensive early college program of study.