Robbins: School Districts Have Until Sept. 15 to Apply for "Dual Enrollment" Program

Allows students to earn college credits while in high school.

Harrisburg – School districts have until September 15th to apply for funding under a new state program that will put college within reach of more students by allowing them to earn college credits while in high school, state Senator Bob Robbins (R-50) said today.

The program will be run through partnerships between school districts and eligible postsecondary institutions, said Robbins, a sponsor of the original legislation whose provisions were inserted into the bill signed by the Governor. This program will be available to high school juniors and seniors, and vocational-technical students.

"Dual enrollment is a win-win situation for everyone involved," said Robbins. "It provides qualified high school students with an opportunity not only to get acclimated to college, but to get a jump-start on their college education, saving them both time and money. Higher education institutions will save money as they will spend less on remedial education. High schools will be able to partner with higher education institutions to provide expanded offerings to students."

The General Assembly passed a 2005-06 state budget that includes $5 million for the program – with up to $400,000 reserved for extra assistance for low-income students. School districts can use grants to pay for tuition, books, fees, and transportation associated with the program.

Districts will be required to create a dual enrollment committee, adopt written agreements with their postsecondary partners, and submit an annual report to the state Department of Education.

A grant application and more information about the dual enrollment program can be found at www.project720.org under "Dual Enrollment."

CONTACT: Nate Silcox (717) 787-1322