March 21. 2023           Brookville, IN

Franklin County High School started working on becoming an Early College high school in 2013. The team of Early College educators has changed drastically over the years. What does it mean to be Early College endorsed? Early College High School helps first-generation, socioeconomically disadvantaged, and minority high school students take rigorous college-level classes to earn both a high school diploma and credits toward a two- or four-year postsecondary degree. 

Franklin County High School joined the RECN grant project in the year of 2019-2020, which provided additional funding to make this possible as well as provide a network of resources from other endorsed schools. What is RECN? Rural Early College Network (RECN)- Helps rural Indiana high schools more quickly implement the Early College (EC) high school model and focuses on the establishment of model rural Early College high school sites and templates for fostering additional high-quality Early College programs. Within RECN, you can learn about the Indiana Collaborative for Rural Education (ICRE)

We found out that much of our school was already doing many of what other Early College high schools were doing, and the resources were available. Then we needed to compile all the data and prepare a portfolio to be considered for endorsement. This portfolio addressed the eight required principles established by CELL including providing a rigorous curriculum, robust student supports, and completion data. In addition, a CELL team visited the school to interview administration, teachers, students, and parents about the EC and its benefits and challenges before designating the program as endorsed.

Over the course of five years, there have been many training sessions for the superintendent, principals, and the team which consists of two counselors and four dual credit teachers. Katie DeGrazia headed this along with Katie Schneider, Adam Hofer, Sharon Volk, Michael Kristoff and Sara Shaver. Many others played parts as well, including Colleen Tincher and other teachers along the way. 

Through the dual credit opportunities at Franklin County High School, students are able to earn meaningful postsecondary credentials such as the Indiana College Core and an Associates Degree. Students in the Early College Program are provided with resources and support to help them overcome barriers to higher education.