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 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.

Courtesy Photo Miah Schopfer, Alcona Community Schools fifth year Early College student, plays for the ACC softball team. Schopfer is pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice.

Alcona’s Early College Recharge Program is made possible through partnerships with ACC and Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union. 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,” Cordes said. “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.”

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.”

Courtesy Photo Zean Monnier, a current fifth year Early College student at Alcona Community Schools, is the first student from the high school to be enrolled in the Alpena Community College Utility Technology program. Monnier’s career goal is to become a lineman and also take classes in business so he can be an entrepreneur.

“It saves me money and helps prepare me for college life,” Schopfer said.

Courtesy Photo Helen-Ann Cordes, Alcona Community Schools Early College Program Coordinator, is seen in her new Early College Recharge Room. This classroom space was made possible through the help of volunteers, ACS staff, and a Michigan College Access Network Innovative Program Grant. The room will be used for Early College students to study, take college exams, host workshops for students and families, conduct weekly seminars with Early College students, and more.