Early College Pathway FAQ

What is the Early College Pathways program?

The Early College Pathways program provides students with an opportunity to take college courses while in high school at no cost to the student/family! This program allows students to get a head start on earning credits towards a future degree, thereby decreasing the overall time and costs associated with a post-secondary degree. Furthermore, the program encourages students to connect their career interests with college majors early on, which may help to decrease the time it takes to declare a major once in college.

Why take advantage of the Early College Pathways program?

The Early College Pathways program recognizes that the financial costs and time associated with earning a college degree, in addition to general student readiness for college course work are two major factors that impact college completion rates. With 65% of all jobs requiring post-secondary education and training (according to 2020 labor market data), the Early College Pathways program supports all students by providing them with the opportunity to get an early start building their college transcript, while also encouraging students to learn and practice the skills necessary for a smooth college transition after high school, in order to increase the likelihood of college completion.

Who can participate in this program?

The Hopkins Academy Early College Pathways program has been designed to support all students, with priority given to students historically underrepresented in post-secondary education enrollment and completion, and in the relevant career industry.

In what grade do students begin the Early College Pathways program?

Students are strongly encouraged to apply to the Early College Pathways program starting in the 8th grade to allow for full participation, though students may decide to apply later based upon readiness (prior to the start of their senior year). In additional to free college courses, what else does the Early College Pathways program provide? Students will participate in self-awareness, career research, and college planning activities throughout 9th-12th grade. These activities serve to promote a developmentally appropriate build-up to taking college courses during their 10th grade (Hopkins Academy campus), 11th and 12th grade (GCC campus), in addition to supporting students in the determination of a future post- secondary plan before graduating from Hopkins Academy.

What kind of academic support is available for students in the Early College Pathway program?

These academic resources are set up to help students with problem-solving support, as well as resources to be successful in the program. All EC Pathway students are assigned a Hopkins Academy EC advisor. EC advisors hold weekly office hours to check in with students on progress and concerns. English Language Learners in the EC Pathway are assigned a certified ESL instructor as their advisor. Students with IEPs in the EC Pathway have access to academic support classes and may be assigned an advisor who is certified in special education. Students will get additional support by working with a college advisor once they begin taking college course work at Greenfield Community College.

What career development support is provided to students in the Early College Pathways program?

As a part of the MyCAP process, students will complete tasks that assist them in exploring the various careers available in relation to their interests. Students begin the MyCAP process of career exploration in the 7th grade so that by 9th grade they will have a better understanding of their interests and the possible careers that are related to those interests. Students will explore specific careers, the labor market outlook for those careers, and rates of pay based on specific regions of Massachusetts. All students in grades 9-12 will participate in exploratory experiences like the annual Career Fair, and Credit for Life Fair, which promote student curiosity and understanding of the interested professions, and the lifestyle these professions may provide. Additionally, these students will have access to Career Service resources through Greenfield Community College.

Our partner, Greenfield Community College, also makes resources available to dual-enrollment students:

• The GCC Dual Enrollment Office provides comprehensive academic advising that includes degree planning and course registration as well as resource information and referral to campus resources for EC Pathway.
• On-campus space for study and reflection. Many spaces are available on the GCC campus, including the Community Resource Studio, Dual enrollment suite, Library, and the Humanities, Science, Math, Social Science, and Business Studios.
• The Inclusion and Diversity Center provides a physical locale for community building and on-site faculty mentorship to students of color and their allies.
• Peer Tutors give students hands-on support as they explore majors and build individual academic and career plans or if they need help with coursework.
• Wellness Center. Counseling by trained professionals is offered at GCC to help cope with personal challenges and academic struggles. The Office of Disability Services (ODS) works with students, faculty and staff to promote access to all facets of the college experience for individuals with disabilities. Any student needing accommodations for their Greenfield Community College courses will need to work with the ODS to create an accommodation plan.

How does a student get started with the Early College Pathways program application process?

Stop by the main office at Hopkins Academy to see the Counselor, Anna Cyr. You may also email her at acyr@hadleyschools.org.

How are student applicants prioritized for admission to the Early College Pathways program?

If an admission cap is necessary, priority will be given to students based on year of graduation (in descending order) with the understanding that students must be able to complete all requirements prior to graduation. Students may apply at any point during their high school career to be a part of a pathway; however, students will be encouraged to commit to a specific pathway in the spring of 9th grade or fall of 10th grade. Students who are not accepted in a given year will receive priority for the following year. If any other selection issues occur (e.g. too many priority students), all decisions will be made by lottery.