Birmingham Expands Early College Program to Wenonah High School
Birmingham City Schools has broadened its Early College Program by introducing it at Wenonah High School, allowing more students access to college-level coursework while still in high school. This initiative, which began at Woodlawn High School, now includes 15 juniors and 10 sophomores currently enrolled at Wenonah.
The program partners with Lawson State Community College, located nearby, to facilitate this opportunity. Starting next semester, freshmen will also be able to participate, further expanding the program’s reach. Students in the program gain valuable insight into college life and can earn credits that count towards their future degrees.
Jibria Poole, an 11th grader at Wenonah, expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Through this program, I was able to get a look into what my college life would look like.” This early exposure aims to equip students with experiences and knowledge that can ease their transition to higher education.
Angelica Davis, the program coordinator at Wenonah High School, highlighted the significance of this partnership. She noted the logistical advantage of having both institutions located next to each other, allowing students to split time between the two campuses. While juniors attend classes on-site, sophomores engage in online coursework, enabling flexibility in their learning.
Davis anticipates that students will be able to accumulate 30 or more credits by the time they graduate high school. The inclusion of ninth graders in the program starting next semester reflects the initiative’s growth and the commitment to preparing students for future academic endeavors. The Early College Program is offered at no cost to students, making it a valuable option for many families in the Birmingham area.
By expanding the Early College Program, Birmingham City Schools not only enhances educational opportunities but also empowers students to make significant strides toward their academic goals before even graduating high school.
