Within the Kent Intermediate School District (ISD) any student that is currently a freshman or sophomore in high school may apply for the LaunchU program.
LaunchU is an early/middle college program that allows students to earn additional high school credit as well as college credit beginning their sophomore or junior year.
“LaunchU is made to provide an additional year in high school while attaining college credit,” counselor Dion Charity said. “Students will have the opportunity to earn an associate degree before they graduate from high school within that 13th year.”
Students are eligible for the program as long as they are currently enrolled in high school, have a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.5, meet the prerequisites and have approval from their counselor.
However, eligibility does not necessarily grant acceptance to LaunchU.
“[Acceptance is] selective, that is why the application process is so thorough. You do need a letter of recommendation from a staff member or a counselor,” Charity said.
To apply, set up a meeting with one of the high school counselors and ask about signing up for LaunchU.
“If you come into the counseling office we will provide you with a QR code that will allow you to fill out an application,” Charity said.
All applications for the 2022/23 school year are due March 25th.
Students who start during their freshman year begin taking college courses on top of high school classes during their sophomore year. Students then spend an extra year in high school after graduation, the 13th year, taking solely college courses. After completion, students receive an associate’s degree.
Charity believes LaunchU is a great opportunity for students who want to get a head start on college careers.
“I would recommend the program to students who have an idea of obtaining college credit but aren’t quite sure where they want to go yet,” Charity said. “I think it allows students to grow more and find their path.”
