Principal’s Corner by Johanna Thomas

 

As the 2018-19 school year began, so did a new program and opportunity for students at Albert Lea Area Learning Center. 

In partnership with Riverland Community College, the Early Middle College program began its first year at the ALC. The program provides eligible students a way to earn their high school diploma through the ALC while taking post-secondary credits toward a two-year credential, certificate or degree. 

The students are considered PSEO (postsecondary enrollment option) students and the program allows flexibility in entrance requirements that vary from other PSEO requirements. Students who take advantage of the program now have the opportunity to earn college credit toward a credential or degree in one of the many programs Riverland offers.

ALC staff and school counselors assist in identifying students who meet the criteria and have interest in Early Middle College. Students then apply to Riverland and begin the process of registering and developing a course schedule with a Riverland advisor. Both schools continue to support the students throughout the semester.  Students may be attending all college classes or may have a combination of college classes and high school classes to meet their high school graduation requirements. 

The program has seen success across the state and is now available to students at Albert Lea Area Learning Center, where we are also seeing success with students in the program. There is no greater reward for educators at ALC than when students realize their potential and creating those opportunities for our students.

Johanna Thomas is the principal of Albert Lea Area Learning Center.