Alcona Community Schools Receives MCAN Grant to Expand its Early College Program
Harrisville, MI – Alcona Community Schools is excited to announce the launch of its Early College Recharge Program, aimed at expanding the Early College initiative within the district. This new program is supported by a $10,000 Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) grant, awarded to the district in April 2024. The Early College Recharge Program will strengthen the school’s five-year Early College initiative, which enables students to earn both a high school diploma and significant college credits, creating a seamless transition to post-secondary education through a partnership with Alpena Community College (ACC).
Aligned with Michigan's "Sixty by 30" goal to have 60% of residents earn a post-secondary degree or certificate by 2030, the Early College Program provides students the opportunity to complete full-time college coursework during their fifth year, with continuous support from an Early College Coordinator to ensure academic success. This unique model offers students a real college experience, bridging the gap between high school and higher education.
Helen-Ann Cordes, Alcona’s Early College Coordinator, spearheaded the MCAN grant application, which she submitted in November 2023. Reflecting on the program's potential, Cordes said, “I’m thrilled about this opportunity to grow our Early College Program. A common misconception is that college isn't for everyone, but with our program, students can take courses in various fields—whether it’s traditional programs like math and science or trade and technical programs like welding, automotive, utility, and concrete technology. Our students can even earn up to an associate degree at little to no cost.”
The Early College Recharge Program is designed to promote a college-going culture, remove barriers to post-secondary education, and provide students with the tools and support they need to succeed. By starting the conversation about college early on, it helps students better understand their options, build confidence in navigating higher education pathways, and make informed decisions about their future academic and career goals.
Alcona's Early College Recharge Program is made possible through partnerships with ACC and Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union (AAACU). ACC provides invaluable support through dual enrollment, campus tours, TRIO Talent Search, having a dedicated college liaison, and more. AAACU facilitates financial literacy programs, runs the school’s credit union branch, offers scholarships to seniors, and more.
Cordes is also eager to challenge a widespread misconception that college and trade school are separate paths. “In reality, they complement each other, especially with the opportunities available at ACC. Students can enhance their skills by taking introductory courses like welding or CNC machining, or they can pursue a more focused path, such as earning a certificate or associate degree in programs like Utility Technology or Concrete Technology,” Cordes said.
In addition to highlighting trade opportunities, Cordes emphasizes the limitless potential offered by the Early College Program. “Early College is a pathway that students can explore throughout high school,” she explained. “They simply need to apply in their sophomore year, and if accepted, the sky’s the limit for what they can achieve.”
This year, for the first time, two Early College students from ACS are competing in collegiate athletics. Carter Upper is running for the ACC Cross Country Team, while Miah Schopfer plays for the ACC Softball Team. Both students are in their fifth year of the Early College Program. Upper noted, “I wanted to get a head start on college in a more affordable and easier way than going directly to a four-year university. Early College lets me ease into college classes at my own pace.” Schopfer added, “It saves me money and helps prepare me for college life.”
The program acknowledges the significance of student well-being, given that many college students encounter challenges affecting their academic experience. The Early College Recharge Room offers a supportive environment where students can access resources to help them navigate both academic and personal aspects of college life.
With its emphasis on student engagement, college readiness, and equitable access to higher education, Alcona High School’s Early College Recharge Program contributes to Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal. By integrating high school and college education, the program enhances students' educational pathways and establishes a new benchmark for academic achievement and college preparedness.
For more information about Alcona High School’s Early College Program, please contact:
Helen-Ann Cordes
Early College Coordinator,
Alcona Community Schools
Phone: (989) 736-8534
Email: cordesh@alconaschools.net