AHS Early College Academy is a collaboration between Athol High School, Mount Wachusett Community College, and Fitchburg State University. This program is for students in grades 11 and 12, and gives them access to free college courses, as well as extra college and career readiness opportunities. During Junior year, students can take 4 or more MWCC college courses, taught by college professors at AHS in Room 215. Senior year, students take all of their courses at MWCC's Gardner campus. Free transportation and meals are provided. In addition, students have access to multiple courses each semester and over the summer through FSU Fitchburg State University. All courses, books, supplies, and any other related costs are completely free to students/families. Students in the class of 2024 earned between 12-37 college credits by the time of graduation. Within Early College Academy, there are specific pathways for the following career fields:

• Healthcare

• Liberal Arts - Humanities (English, History, Social Studies)

• Liberal Arts - STEM (Science, Technology, Math, Engineering)

• Business

• Education

Early College Foundations

In 2024-2025, we are rolling out Early College Foundations for 9th and 10th grade students. Students will prepare for college-level coursework and expectations through a regular workshop with Early College staff called “Early College Lab,” in addition to other workshops, college and career opportunities, trainings, and more. Success in Early College Foundations gives students priority when applying to Early College Academy in Junior/Senior year. Participants will receive priority spots for field trips, career panels, internships, and more. Participants are required to attend bimonthly advisory meetings, and communicate regularly with Early College staff.

Application Information

Early College Foundations Application for grades 8, 9, 10:

•  AHS Early College Foundations Application  Applications for ECF are open and ongoing, and students can join anytime between May of 8th grade through October of 10th grade. 

Early College Academy Application Information for grades 11 & 12: 

• Early College Academy Application Instructions

  • Note: There are 3 parts of the application. Applications are not reviewed until all 3 parts are complete and submitted. 

• As of July 9, 2024: Can students still apply to the AHS Early College Academy?

  • AHS Early College for the classes of 2025 and 2026 is still accepting applications from any students who are NEW to Athol High School/ARRSD. Once we receive your completed application, we will reach out about next steps. 

  • For all students in the classes of 2025 and 2026 who were at AHS in the 2024-2025 school year, application deadlines have already passed, and the program is full. However, you are welcome to submit a completed application, and be added to the wait-list. A spot may become available, and those on the wait-list will have priority.

Early College begins recruiting in Feb/March for the following school year , and applications are due in April/May. 

Resources

• College & Career Programs Slideshow 

• *** College & Career Readiness Program on Facebook *** 

• From 2023-2024

  • AHS Early College Student Contract for Juniors

  • Student/Family Information Session Presentation (juniors)

• AHS Early College Student Contract for Seniors

• Student/Family Information Session Presentation (seniors)

Questions and More Information

Reach out to Heather Berlin, the AHS Early College Coordinator, and College and Career Readiness Program Coordinator, if you have questions or would like further information. hberlin@arrsd.org