February 6, 2020 – Waterbury, CT – The City of Waterbury, Waterbury Public Schools and Post University are pleased to announce a joint partnership in the creation of an Early College High School Program (ECHSP) for the 2020-2021 academic year. The ECHSP is a unique program designed in partnership with the University’s High School Academy.
Mayor Neil M. O’Leary and educational leaders from both institutions invite the community to a formal signing next Tuesday, February 11 at 4:00 p.m. at Post University’s Downtown campus at 140 Bank Street.
“We are delighted to partner with the school district to offer opportunities to deserving high school students in Waterbury public schools,” said Post University CEO & President John L. Hopkins. “Education is a basic right and Post will continue to develop and expand programs that encourage new populations to enter Post and provide access to a rich portfolio of personalized learning and growth opportunities at our university. I look forward to welcoming the outstanding Waterbury Public School students into the Post family.”
The Early College High School Program will be at Crosby High School and offer students the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Accounting, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, Legal Studies, Management or Marketing, while simultaneously earning a high school diploma. Waterbury students will attend college classes at Post University, complete online coursework at Crosby and/or attend college classes taught by a Post-credentialed Waterbury Public Schools instructor at Crosby. Under the agreement, students will enroll in college-level courses, at no cost, beginning their Freshman year.
“The Early College High School Program will offer an academically rigorous school experience, predominantly helping low-income youth, first-generation college-goers, English language learners, students of color and other young people from backgrounds underrepresented in higher education,” said Superintendent Dr. Verna D. Ruffin. “The outcomes for students go beyond academic success. The evidence from other successfully implemented Early College High Schools suggests that students graduate at rates far above state averages. Implementing the Early College High School Program with Post University’s unparalleled vision will give our
students an enriching high school and college experience. We also recognize that a student’s mindset, attitude, and expectations are critically important and aligns with our Portrait of a Graduate vision in Waterbury.”