PEEKSKILL…. This fall, 24 Peekskill High School seniors have headed off early every Saturday morning to Monroe College in New Rochelle to attend Monroe’s innovative Jumpstart Program. This 15-week program gives seniors the opportunity to take courses in Criminal Justice, Medical Assistance, Baking and Pastry Arts, Business Administration, Information Technology and Culinary Arts. Upon completion, students are awarded three college credits. These credits may be used at Monroe or transferred to other colleges.
To qualify for the program, students must have a 75 GPA and take a math and English entrance exam. A college essay, an application and a copy of the student’s transcript are also required. The program is free to all PHS students and includes transportation, books, college credits, and snacks. Despite the early start on Saturday mornings, the students are enthusiastic about the experience. Bernard Walker is interested in a career in emergency services, and is enjoying the medical assistance program. Lucy Malyango is excited about the college savings: “It’s a way to get ahead. I will have six credits that I will not have to pay for college,” she observes. “I got to know kids from other schools. It will help me with my career; I want to be a chef and I am taking a hospitality class,” reflects Dirynoshka Vega. Comments Shakeema Jones: “I like speech communication. It’s a good head start to know what college is like.” Classes will be in session until December 11, 2010. The second semester will begin in January and will be offered to juniors and seniors who meet eligibility requirements.
For further information, contact:
Emily Hersh, Assistant Principal, Peekskill High School 914-737-0201.
Read about ithe visit in the Peekskill Daily:
http://www.peekskilldaily.com/daily-news/2010/10/18/phs-seniors-%E2%80%98jump-start%E2%80%99-college