Boston Chron - Boston: City's Early College Program Celebrates Fourth Cohort of High Schoolers Incentivized to Earn College Credit

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~ Boston's Office of Workforce Development has been leading the way in providing a transformative opportunity for the city's rising high school juniors and seniors through the Summer Learn and Earn (SLE) program. This innovative program, which was created in 2020, incentivizes teens to take college-level courses and has been proven to have a positive impact on students' confidence, habits, and skills needed for post-secondary and life success.

According to a recent report from the Rennie Center on the growth of Early College in Massachusetts, students who participate in Early College programs gain valuable experience and skills that prepare them for their future endeavors. The SLE program offers students the chance to earn college credits while also receiving a stipend, eliminating the need for them to choose between a summer job or a learning opportunity.

This summer, 120 motivated young people took part in the SLE program. They were able to earn a stipend of $250 per week for seven weeks, with an additional $250 bonus for perfect attendance. The program partners with three colleges - Roxbury Community College, Franklin Cummings Tech, and Emmanuel College - offering students six different college courses to choose from: Introduction to Business (two sections), Introduction to Marketing, Web Design, Professional Communications, and Crime and Justice.

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The SLE program is more than just an educational opportunity; it serves as a stepping stone for Boston's youth to explore their potential, gain invaluable experience and contacts, and prepare for their future careers. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with the necessary tools and confidence to succeed beyond high school.

One of the key components of the SLE program is academic coaching. Each college course is paired with an Academic Coach who provides personalized guidance and support throughout the seven-week program. This helps students navigate any academic challenges they may face and thrive in their studies. Additionally, students engage in various college readiness and planning activities, such as campus tours, financial aid information sessions, and an overview of the college selection and application process.

The program also focuses on career readiness, offering students workshops on resume writing and helping them identify their strengths and career aspirations. This holistic approach ensures that students are well-prepared for both college and their future careers.

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The SLE program concluded on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, with a celebration ceremony at Emmanuel College's Wilkens Science Center. Students from each class presented to their peers on what they had learned over the summer and were awarded certificates of completion to commemorate their successful earning of college credits. As we reflect on the program's success this summer, we are excited to see how these young minds will shape their paths in the years to come.

For rising juniors or seniors in Boston looking for an enriching experience next year, the Summer Learn and Earn program is definitely worth considering. For updates on the program, visit boston.gov/learn-earn. With its proven track record of success in preparing students for their future endeavors, the SLE program is a valuable opportunity for Boston's youth to gain valuable skills and experiences that will benefit them in the long run.

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