Brookville, IN — The Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL) at the University of Indianapolis recently announced the endorsement of the Early College (EC) program at Franklin County High School (FCHS) in Brookville as highly effective in implementing with fidelity the Eight Core Principles of Early College.
The Early College program at FCHS began in the spring of 2014, and this year will graduate 10 students with 15+ dual credits in the past two years, have graduated three students with the Indiana College Core Certificate from Ivy Tech Community College in Richmond with a block of 30 transferable college credits.
FCHS students have also graduated with college certificates in Machine Tool Technology, Structural Welding, and CNA Dementia Care.
FCHS provides a college and career-ready program that is instructed and guided by highly qualified teachers and guidance counselors who have empowered students to earn credits beyond high school. These fine educators and counselors collaborated and led students through their Early College courses to be productive in their area of study. These teachers and guidance counselors who are to be commended for this FCHS endorsement are Mrs. Sharon Volk, Mr. Michael Kristoff, Mr. Adam Hofer, Mrs. Katie Schneider, Ms. Katie DeGrazia, and Ms. Sara Shaver.
The Early College high school model creates cohorts within schools that are designed to give students jumpstarts for the rest of their lives. Students can earn both high school diplomas and
up to two years of credit toward bachelor or associate degrees.
While open to all students, Early College programs specifically serve low-income young people, first-generation college students, English language learners, and students of color – all statistically underrepresented in higher education.
To be considered for endorsement, the school prepared a portfolio that addressed the eight required principles established by CELL including providing a rigorous curriculum, robust student supports, and completion data. In addition, a CELL team visited the school to interview administration, teachers, students, and parents about the EC and its benefits and challenges
before designating the program as endorsed.
“These newly-endorsed Early College High Schools have documented evidence of quality programs that help high school students graduate high school and accelerate into post-
secondary education, whether at a four-year institution or a career/technical program. These students’ accomplishments are true game-changers for them and their families!” said Sandy
Hillman, CELL Director of Early College. “The EC School Leadership Team at Franklin County High School is commended for its strong commitment to blurring the line between high school and post-secondary education.”
CELL, at the University of Indianapolis, is a leading convener, catalyst, and collaborator for dynamic, innovative education change in Indiana. It has trained over 170 high schools across
the state in the fundamentals of Early College and endorsed 47 Early Colleges as of March of 2023. Once a school receives endorsement, it is expected to further develop its opportunities
and will be reviewed for re-endorsement every three years.
(Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning/University of Indianapolis press release)
