Massachusetts To Expand Early College Initiates In High Schools

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts officials are expanding an early college initiative that allows thousands of students to study and earn college credits before they even graduate high school.

Republican Gov. Charlie Baker and state Education Secretary James Peyser announced $900,000 in grants being awarded for programs involving 13 high schools and eight public colleges, starting in the fall.

State officials say the early college programs combine traditional high school classes with courses offered by a local college or university. It allows students to focus on an area of study while earning up to 12 college credits at no cost.

High schools in Boston, Framingham, Fitchburg, Haverhill, Lynn, Leominster and Marlborough are among those receiving grants and bring to 35 the number of high schools with early college programs.

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