Early College High School Model Provides College Campus Experiences for High School Students and Professional Development for University Graduate Students

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and the University of Maryland College Park (UM) are collaborating in a unique program to open the pathways to college. The Early College High School model provides opportunities for high school students to enroll in college courses on the UM campus, use the university library for coursework, and participate in field trips to university cultural events and other campus activities.

Because parents and students receive information about financial aid and college entry requirements early in the high school career, the program is particularly beneficial to families who have had little or no experience with the college admission process.

UM faculty and graduate students also benefit from the program. Northwood High School classrooms are the setting for an intensive year-long professional development program for students seeking a master’s degree in teaching. Northwood and UM faculty and students from both institutions also cooperate on research projects.

NOTE: A news conference highlighting the partnership will take place at Northwood High School on Monday, October 9, at 1:00 p.m. Participants will include Dr. James F. Harris, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, UMCP; Dr. Jerry D. Weast, superintendent of schools; Dr. Charles Haughey, president of the Board of Education; students and school staff.