WHS students can now earn two-year college degrees without leaving campus

WENATCHEE — Wenatchee High School students now have the option to graduate not only with a diploma, but with a completed two-year college degree earned entirely on their own campus.

The district announced the expansion of its Accelerated Pathways program this week, allowing students to complete College in the High School coursework or finish a full Associate of Arts and Sciences degree through partnerships with Central Washington University and Wenatchee Valley College.

The program is designed so students can earn college credits without leaving Wenatchee High School or giving up athletics, clubs and other activities. “Students no longer have to choose between earning college credit and being part of their high school community,” Principal Donna Moser said in the announcement. “They can walk across the graduation stage having already completed one to two years of college — all without missing out on the high school student experience.”

The expanded pathways include:

• Two-year associate degrees completed entirely at WHS, with options in fields such as Early Childhood Education and Engineering Technology.
  
  
• General education credits transferable to Washington public universities through CWU partnerships, allowing students to start their majors immediately as freshmen.
  
  
• Career & Technical Education programs offering industry certifications, job shadows and internships for students entering the workforce directly after high school.

Students may still choose Running Start at Wenatchee Valley College, but the district notes that Accelerated Pathways keeps students on campus while earning equivalent credits.

All courses offered through the program are free, including college tuition, books and fees—savings estimated between $15,000 and $30,000 for students who complete a two-year degree in high school. Additional benefits include dedicated advising, biweekly grade checks and quarterly planning meetings with pathway counselors.

Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA for college degree pathways or a 2.0 GPA for CTE.

Superintendent Dr. Kory Kalahar said the early response shows families want high school access to both advanced academics and traditional school experiences. “Our students don’t have to sacrifice their high school experience to get ahead academically. They can have both, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing.”

Current WHS students can learn more through their counselors. Families and prospective students can call (509) 663-8117 for more information.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media