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HCPSS / NEWS

JumpStart Online Application Open Now Through December 22, 2017

November 29th, 2017

Update: The JumpStart application is now closed for the 2018-2019 school year.

The application for the JumpStart early college and dual-enrollment program is now open to interested students who will enter grades 9–12 during the 2018–2019 school year. The application will remain open until December 22, and student selection begins January 2018. Any Howard County public school student may apply for JumpStart. There are no requirements such as placement exams or grade point averages, and every student will receive the necessary supports to achieve success.

The JumpStart initiative is a partnership between the Howard County Public School System and Howard Community College (HCC) that increases dual enrollment opportunities for high school students to develop skills, explore possible careers, and earn college credits while still in high school.

JumpStart courses are offered at every high school, with additional courses offered at Oakland Mills and River Hill high schools to students at those schools and those who wish to transfer from Centennial, Howard and Long Reach high schools. Course options include cybersecurity, health sciences, criminal justice, teacher education, entrepreneurship, computer science, STEM, public health and general studies.

JumpStart offers two possible tracks: a flexible option for high school students at any grade level and a structured option for rising ninth- and 10th-graders who can commit to an accelerated program of study. The Flexible option allows students to explore careers and interests, gain exposure to college coursework, and increase college success. Students may take one or more classes per semester, at their high school or on the HCC campus, with the option to attend HCC full time during their senior year. The Structured track allows students entering the ninth or 10th grade to earn 30 or more college credits, up to 60 college credits and an Associate Degree. These programs combine high school-based and HCC campus-based dual credit for a structured pathway to high school graduation.

Parents and students are encouraged to attend one of the following remaining information sessions: