Early College Program
The Early College Program or Early Middle College (EMC) is a Michigan Department of Education approved five-year program of study. The EMC is designed to allow a pupil to earn a high school diploma and one of the following; 60 transferable college credits, an associate degree, a professional certification, the Michigan Early Middle College Association (MEMCA) technical certificate, or the right to participate in a registered apprenticeship. A professional certification is any certificate or industry recognized credential in which the pupil prepared for by taking course work provided by a Michigan public or private college or university.
Students who are interested in applying for the EC Program does so in the spring of their sophomore year. Students entering Alcona the fall of their Junior year who are interested need to see Mrs. VK the first week of school. Students who are accepted commit to a 5th year of High School and completing one of the possible outcomes listed below. One high school graduation credit will be held back (usually senior math) until the 5th year. Students declare an ACC Program of Study when they apply, but can change programs as many times as they'd like. EC is not just for students who are thinking about attending a 4 year college. This is a great opportunity for students pursuing a 2 year degree or industry certification to be completed alongside a high school diploma.
The Qualifications
Sophomore in good standing and on track for on-time graduation
Interested in a career pathway offered at ACC as a major, pre-major, transfer program, and/or technical program
Agree to a five-year high school plan - This is a 5-year commitment that allows students to take significant amounts of college credits (up to an Associate Degree) while completing high school graduation requirements.
The Expectations
Attend school regularly and consistently
Devote time to studying outside of school hours
Complete all Michigan Merit high school graduation requirements
Follow handbook rules for both ACC and Alcona High School and behave in a respectful manner
Follow the academic calendar for BOTH ACC and Alcona High School - there are differences!
Meet with your High School Academic Counselor and ACC advisor at least once per year to discuss academic progress and next steps.
Complete 100 hours of community service, 40 hours of career exploration, or 70 hours combination of the two.
The Benefits
Take college classes free of charge (unless you fail a class - the state of Michigan requires high school students who fail a college course to repay the school district for the cost of the course)
The ability to change majors or pathways without penalty.
The ability to take more than 10 classes over 3 years. (Dual Enrollment students may only take 10 classes without charge.)
Access to ACC advisors, help, and support services.
The Process
Attend an information night and ask questions of Alcona and ACC staff.
Apply for the Early College Program in the spring of the sophomore year.
Apply to Alpena Community College.
Sign the parent and student agreement.
Begin taking classes junior year.
Take college classes Senior year (4th year)
Walk with their class 4th year and be recognized for clubs, sports, and high school academics.
Apply to colleges and scholarships their 5th year.
Walk with their graduating class their 5th year and be recognized for all their hard academic work both in high school and college.
The Possible Outcomes
Associate's Degree
Professional Certification
Eligibility for Internship
60 College Credits
MEMCA Certificate:
Completed the Michigan Merit Curriculum
Completed the school's MEMCA-approved College Readiness Curriculum
Minimum 15 college credits (non-remedial courses)
AND one of the following:
100 hours of verified community service
40 hours of verified career exploration, internship, job shadowing, or clinical experience
A combination of the first two options that equals 70+ hours.