An independent study conducted by Ithaka S+R found that, compared to other public school students in New York City, Bard High School Early Colleges (BHSECs) students were significantly more likely to graduate from high school. In addition, BHSEC graduates were more likely to enroll in and graduate from four-year colleges and universities.
The BHSECs are a product of Bard College, located in Annandale-on-
Bard High School Early Colleges studentsHudson, New York. A liberal arts school itself, Bard created the programs to “extend the liberal arts college experience to public high school students who might not otherwise have access to it.”
Bard’s BHSECs offers “rigorous coursework,” opportunities to earn college credit, the ability to earn an associate degree alongside a high school diploma and “intensive support” in applying to college. The program, which is free for enrolled high school students, is funded by philanthropic support and by partnerships with public school districts.
Examining the structural elements of the BHSECs success, the case study found that faculty with experience in both university and K-12 settings were integral to the program’s success as well as a strong relationship to the local school district.
