Washington High School had 11 ECA (Early College Academy) graduates during the recent school year. The students represent the district’s second group of ECA graduates. The first group graduated last year.
Each year, a group of WHS sophomores apply to be accepted and attend East Central College to take the accuplacer exam to determine college readiness. If they score high enough on the exam and are chosen for the program, they attend ECC full time during their junior and senior years of high school.
These students are able to graduate with an associate degree and a WHS diploma after completion of their senior year.
“We have 15 spots that we can fill in each cohort, so there can be up to 30 Washington High School students in the program at any given time. We have had groups of nine to 13 being accepted each year and, for the most part, they have found success,” said Dr. Joe Dierks, Director of Choice Programs for the School District of Washington. “The program works well for very independent students that are willing to advocate for themselves and ask for help as needed. ECA students are also able to set the high school experience down and essentially fast forward things a bit, so having a really good idea of what they want to major in helps. The program isn't for everyone, but it has been wonderful for a small group of students each year.”
This year's Early College Academy graduates from Washington High School are Donovan Alu, Dilynn Aufmuth, Ashlee Becker, Emma Buehrlen, Caleb Dieckhaus, Chloe Hawkins, Susie Heggemann, Zachary Hoffman, Abigail Kleekamp, Evan Maurer and Erica Rich.