St. Charles School District Joins SCC Early College Academy

Published: 03/08/2021

The St. Charles Community College Early College Academy (ECA) allows area high school students the chance to have challenging learning experiences that enhance and extend their high school curriculum and earn college credit along the way.

"The ECA not only increases college-readiness for students but often makes the transition from high school to college easier," said Kathy Brockgreitens, assistant vice president for college transitions and support systems.

St. Charles Community College is proud to announce the St. Charles School District has officially joined the ECA for the 2021-2022 school year.

“With the addition of the St. Charles School District, we now have six high school partnerships with the SCC Early College Academy,” explained Brockgreitens, “including Orchard Farm, Wentzville, Francis Howell, Warrenton and Wright City school districts.”

In Fall 2018, SCC had 209 students enrolled in its dual credit or dual enrollment classes. In Fall 2020, SCC had 375 students enrolled – an increase of 87 percent.

“The numbers are truly a reflection of Kathy’s hard work and dedication to the Early College Academy,” said Dr. Holly Martin, vice president for academic affairs.  “Her care and attention to detail have earned her a tremendous amount of respect from students, parents and high school counselors, as well as at SCC.”

In October 2019, SCC implemented a new $50 per credit hour rate for all ECA students, making college credit courses more affordable and accessible to area students. On average, high school juniors and seniors pay nearly 41 percent less than the in-district tuition rate for courses at SCC.

“It’s such a great way to get a head start on a college education,” added Martin, “but our Early College Academy is more than that. Our in-depth advising really sets SCC apart. Our dual enrollment and dual credit students are learning about CORE 42, what courses they need to take in their pathway to earn a degree, how to be successful as a college student, and so much more.”

Moving forward, the ECA hopes to expand into all high school districts in St. Charles County, and, ultimately working to add all districts in its five-county service area.