Running Start is a statewide program, that allows high school students to take college courses without paying college tuition, receiving both high school and college credit.  High school juniors and seniors at public or private schools or homeschool may attend.  Students may enroll in high school and college courses or solely at the college.  Tuition is covered for college-level courses.  Fees and textbooks are the responsibility of the student.  Financial assistance is available through the college.  
 

BENEFITS

• Earning college credit:  saving time, money, and effort
• Free tuition:  saving thousands of dollars
• Abundant extracurricular activities:  retaining the option to participate in high school activities
• Diverse student population:  a learning environment of multiple perspectives
• Variety of course selection:  hundreds of courses to choose from
• Campus resources:  tutoring, disability services, counseling     
• Less seat time:  flexible scheduling around work or other responsibilities
• Full or part-time:  make use of various education opportunities

CONSIDERATIONS

• Faster pace
• Increased academic expectations
• Increased responsibility and independence
• Adult learning environment with mature themes and content
• parents do not have access to attendance or grades until the quarter is over.
• Grades in courses remain on high school and college transcripts forever
• Daily and yearly calendars do not align with high school

WCC Running Start 

BTC Running Start