Updated Nov. 23, 6:30 p.m.
Tulsa Public Schools students at McLain and Memorial would be the first to have access to a new early college high school program launching next year.
When students graduate high school, they’ll have also earned an associate’s degree from Tulsa Community College if they successfully complete coursework. District officials expect about 30 students total to start.
The program is pending TPS Board approval.
"Personally, as a first-generation college student, thinking back on my years in both middle and high school, I get excited over the potential of this opportunity, and I know that this could be a game changer and make a difference in the lives of so many of our young people," said Interim Chief Learning Officer Dr. Ebony Johnson.
TPS Director of Postsecondary Readiness Dominik Dresel said besides helping to level the educational playing field locally, the early college program might convince families to enroll or re-enroll their students in the district.
"I think this is another one of those programs that will really attract students to the district, and it’s something we want to invest in," Dresel said.
Johnson and Dresel presented the program to the TPS Board last week.
Tuition and fee costs will be shared by TPS, TCC and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Johnson expects federal funding will cover the district’s costs for the program.
The early college program will cost TPS about $5,100 per participating student, not including transportation to TCC.
