Early College Worcester a Model for the State

Early College Worcester’s successful program has been gaining some national attention. On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, Congressman James McGovern, Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Deputy Commissioner Dr. Regina Robinson, Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja, Worcester State University (WSU) President Barry Maloney, and Worcester Public Schools (WPS) Superintendent Maureen Binienda, gathered together to learn more about the successful Early College Worcester partnership.

Early College Worcester is currently serving approximately 800 WPS students, offering college courses for credit, at no cost. Students who participate in Early College programs are 38% more likely to graduate high school and enroll in higher education. They are also more likely to complete a higher education degree and receive higher salaries.

In his remarks, Dr. Pedraja noted that Early College creates a pathway to higher education, especially for underserved students who might not feel that they belong in a higher education environment.

“This gives them the validation and experience to recognize that college is a possibility for them and an opportunity for them to succeed. We know that this is something that makes a difference and we do it because it’s part of our mission of social justice and providing equitable access to education,” he said.

A group of Early College Worcester students detailed the successes they have had with the program and what they hoped for the future during a roundtable discussion.  

One Early College student, Angelina Defeudis, thought she’d never go to college but after a guidance counselor suggested she try Introduction to Microcomputer Applications at QCC, she embraced Early College. During the roundtable discussion the audience heard her describe that after she enrolled in the program, she increased her GPA from 2.0 to 3.0 and is currently graduating from North High School this year with 15 college credits.

Another Early College student, Liana Correa, is currently a high school junior. Her goal is to have enough credits to obtain an associate degree by the time she graduates from Burncoat High School. She was quick to encourage other students to consider the program.

“It’s possible. No matter where your family comes from and no matter how you were brought up, everybody’s capable of taking classes like this,” she said.

 Congressman McGovern commented on the success of the program.

“It's working here in Worcester, and I think it is a model for the state and I think it is a model for the federal government and we have to figure out how to be wind in the back of this effort,” he said.

With additional grant funding, Early College Worcester could expand to serve 2,000 students.

President Maloney noted that it takes an “unwavering commitment” to make the collaborative program work.

“I believe when we come together as leaders, figuring out the best way forward with student voices leading the way, amazing work happens. And the results are here today,” said Dr. Robinson.

“This is truly game changing for so many of our students and families. And it breaks down so many silos that exist in our systems and builds bridges to college,” added Secretary Marten.

Also in attendance at the Early College event were Director of Educational Partnership and Early College Initiatives Christina Hebert, High School to College Linkages Specialist Andy Kupec, Chairman of the Board of the Mass. Board of Higher Education Chris Gabrieli, Worcester Mayor Joe Petty, and Worcester School Committee member Sue Mailman.

Visit QCC's Early College program to learn more.