As many of us are aware, college is expensive. It can be pricey not only for anyone ages 18 and over but also for those who are still attending high school. The State of Michigan has instituted programs like Michigan Reconnect to fund for adults who are returning to college, but what about those high school age students who are trying to get a headstart in their collegiate education? 

Schoolcraft is now expanding the dual enrollment pilot program to more local districts; including Livonia Public Schools, Garden City Public Schools, Plymouth-Canton Public Schools, Novi Community School District and Northville Public Schools from a $1.2 million state-funded grant. The funding was secured by State Senator Dayna Polehanki to allow for more flexibility and opportunity in offering educational services to more high school students. 

“This program is a victory for everyone involved,” said President of Schoolcraft College, Dr. Glenn Cerny. “It allows our local high school students the ease of dual enrollment and provides our school districts peace of mind in regard to funding.”

Previously, the amount of these proactive high school students who are interested in attending college but dependent on their school’s funding, which is already limited, included only a handful. Now, this grant will allow for more high school students to be dual enrolled and get a head start in their collegiate education; which may offer easier transitions from education to the workforce and numerous other benefits. 

“Having our students dual enroll is a great way for them to get the jumpstart on college and prepare them for the next step in their educational career,” said Amanda Pelukas, Early Middle

College Coordinator for Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. “We see plenty of our students take advantage of dual enrolling at Schoolcraft College and this program will help continue to grow this important program without sacrificing the high school experience.”

This dual enrollment program kickstarted earlier this year with Clarenceville Community Schools, and is the first grant of its kind in the state. Schoolcraft and the local school districts are hopeful that this initiative will install a movement in other community colleges and districts state-wide. 

“Dual enrollment is a great opportunity for high school students to begin their college experience, while in high school and complete their high school requirements while they do it. 

And most importantly, they do this at no cost to the families,” said Aaron Baughman, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services for the Northville Public Schools. “For some students, dual enrollment is a head start, for others it is a way forward. No matter how you look at it, it is win-win for everyone involved and we encourage parents and students to seriously consider taking at least a few courses at Schoolcraft during their high school years.”

For interested high school students, it is recommended to coordinate with their high school counselor in guidance and eligibility. We look forward to seeing you on campus soon. 

For more information on how to apply and other inquiries, visit https://www.schoolcraft.edu/admissions/apply-to-sc/high-school-students/.