Breaking Traditions

Traditional high school students preparing for college graduate in the Spring with a blank slate, ready ­​­or in some cases - not ready­­ t​o begin further education that will initiate the beginning of independence - except for $20 from Mom when you run out ramen noodles, that is.

The Dual Enrollment program, however, is an opportunity for seniors to graduate in January­​­, meaning more beach time in the Spring­­​ and many other auspicious benefits. After sitting down with Sandwich High School guidance counselor Lindsey Arrimour, thoughtful insight about the possibilities with the Dual Enrollment program were contrived.

She stated that, “SHS has a partnership with Cape Cod Community College that allows students to take classes at both schools. Optional­semester is a choice for some Dual Enrollment students and gives them the opportunity to graduate in January.”

Benefits of Dual Enrollment Include:

● earning real college credits

● opportunity to experience an authentic college class workload in comparison to the high school’s interpretation of it

● chance to earn and save money during the five months that daily other seniors are still in school

● more flexible school hours at Cape Cod Community College for those that may have other responsibilities outside of school

● take courses that are not offered at SHS, possibly correlating with the major one is interested in studying after graduating

● earn a CCCC transcript along with the SHS transcript to attach to a college application

● become more familiar with the style and expectations of college professors

One of the biggest concerns for students interested in the optional ­semester is not being able to walk with their class. Fortunately, this is a myth. All dual ­enrollment students have the choice to participate in the graduation ceremony of their class, the splendors of the senior week, and, of course, ­­ prom. S​o the only thing missed out on is sweating in the boiling ­hot school during those last few beach ­weather months.

Sound like the plan for you?​Don’t commit too quick! Although there are many great advantages to the Dual Enrollment program, it is not right for every student.

SHS vice principal Anne Wagner admits, “If I were in high school again I would not do the program. I was not unhappy in high school. I enjoyed my time in school - my classes, relationships with my teachers, my friends.”

Although even some of the happiest kids in high school do take up interest in the Dual Enrollment program, some high­ schoolers have difficulty letting go of their social network. Mrs. Wagner points out that “for many kids they’ve been with the same people for as long as 12 years. It can be hard to let go.”

Other important factors to recognize when considering the program include the extra responsibilities and independence coordinated with it.

Contributing Factors:

● providing one’s method of transportation

● finances for those who may not qualify for financial aid

● adapting to more difficult classes

● being a high school student among college­oriented peers that can differentiate from teenagers, adults, and rarely but possibly, seniors

● no parent­teacher conferences

● managing HS homework and college homework

Still convinced you want to join? T​he only requirements are as follows:

You Must Be:

● 16 years or older ● Student at SHS ● GPA of at least 3.0 The Dual Enrollment program is an opportunity to excel, to earn, to experience, and to exercise your mind. M​ake the right choice for your future and don't be afraid to break tradition.