There is a free college tuition program that still is one of the best-kept secrets in Vermont. Did you know that Vermont students interested in STEM careers can start their college careers and finish their high school class work at the same time?
Tuition free?
I attended last month’s 30th graduation ceremony for the Vermont Academy of Science and Technology at Vermont Technical College and was amazed by the students’ accomplishments and plans. Seventy-one bright young Vermont students were each completing the year with at least 30 college credits in some of the most challenging fields, including engineering technology, biological sciences and agricultural management.
As diplomas were awarded, college plans for these students were announced at institutions such as Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Clarkson and the University of Vermont, as well as institutions in our State Colleges System; 50% of the students will continue on at Vermont Tech.
But I was concerned to see the lack of representation from some areas of Vermont. Our counties with the most population, for example, had the least representation in the program.
The Vermont Academy of Science and Technology is an independent, fully accredited high school with the authority to grant diplomas. As Vermont’s first early college program approved by the Legislature, Academy students may graduate with dual high school diplomas, allowing the students to stay tied into their sending high schools, play sports, participate in clubs and walk with their friends at their home high school graduation in front of their community. (Students may attend either the Williston or Randolph Center campus as commuter students, or can live on campus.)
The Vermont Academy of Science and Technology provides a unique opportunity for Vermont high school students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics to study in an academically stimulating, hands-on learning environment, all while earning credit (and saving money) toward a college degree or industry-recognized credential. In fact, 98% of Academy students complete a degree or credential after the program.
The Vermont Academy of Science and Technology can open doors for more young Vermonters to pursue STEM studies and careers. It reduces future post-secondary education costs and future debt for participants. Fully enrolled, it has the potential for becoming a robust and reliable workforce pipeline for Vermont industries. The majority of students will complete their studies in Vermont, 50% at Vermont Tech alone.
As a trustee for the Vermont State Colleges System, I am proud of the accomplishments of this year’s impressive graduates and the Vermont Tech staff who support them. And, as an industry leader in Vermont, I see very clearly the value of this gem for boosting STEM education and building our future workforce.
This opportunity needs to be widely shared and widely offered to all high school students in our state. Please spread the word and visit vtc.edu for more information.
The combination of a challenging year of college combined with a senior year of high school — at no cost? This shouldn’t be a secret to anyone in Vermont.
Janette Bombardier is the chief technology officer at Chroma Technology Corp. in Bellows Falls, Vt., and a member of the Vermont State Colleges System board of trustees.