Alpena, MichiganLocal Weather Alerts
There are currently no active weather alerts.

Early College Students Make History in Alpena

 

History was made in Alpena as the first Early College students will cross the stage.

Alpena Early College is a three-year program that was first introduced to Alpena High School in 2014. Students stay in school an additional year to complete a full schedule of 13th grade classes, including one final high school class and their college credits to earn their degree or certificate.

“This group is a very special group because they’re the very first graduating class of early college. They’ve completed the three year circuit just this past week at Alpena Community College,” said Lee Fitzpatrick, Early College Specialist.

The program is paid for by the school district and includes books- saving students and families a lot of money. Thirty-five students signed up when the program was first introduced, and tomorrow 27 will be graduate, racking up 40 college credits and equaling a year and a half of Full Time College.

“I feel very fortunate that my generation is the first one to be able to have an opportunity like this at Alpena High School,” said Cody Bellenir, graduating Early College student.

“I’m really proud of the kids and all of the hard work that they’ve done. They’ve really built something that will be meaningful for many, many students coming after them in the future,” said Fitzpatrick.