New York State Education Department Smart Transfer grant will provide $839,301 over four years for early college high school initiative
Earlier today, the entire Cohoes High School Class of 2021 learned of the school’s new Future-Ready Pathways program–a collaboration between the district, Hudson Valley Community College and University at Albany–that provides year-round mentoring and support to 25 students as they pursue a Regents diploma and 60 college credits before graduation, all at no cost to families.
“Future-Ready Pathways begins with you, the members of the Class of 2021, because you’re just beginning high school,” said Superintendent Jennifer Spring, Ed.D. “This is an incredible opportunity for you and the payoff will be immense. You’ll be well ahead of your peers, whether moving on to college or planning for a career.”
Students have the option to choose one of four career exploration pathways: Computers, Engineering and Technology; Health Science and Human Services; Early Childhood and Adolescent Education; and Business and Communications.
“This path is rigorous and you will need to work hard, stay focused and be determined,” added Dr. Spring.
Students will be expected to attend summer classes, which will be held at either Hudson Valley or Cohoes High School and participate in extended learning time after school. There will also be opportunities for career exploration that support the four Future-Ready Pathways as students will be required to complete internships as part of the four-year commitment.
Students must submit an online application to enroll in the program. They must also have an 80 percent overall average, write two essays and provide teacher references to be considered.
Preference is also given to those students who are first generation college goers, English language learners, minority, or would not traditionally have access to higher education after graduation. In addition, 13 of the 25 students must also be classified as socioeconomically disadvantaged as determined by income eligibility for free and reduced-priced lunch.
“The purpose of this program is increase the number of our students taking post-secondary coursework and give those students access to higher education when they may not otherwise consider it an option for their future,” added Dr. Spring.
The online application also requires that the student’s parent or guardian agree to support the child’s decision to enroll. The deadline to apply is November 30.