Different types of concurrent enrollment can be included under the statute. In one type, a high school student may enroll at a post secondary institution at any time without any formal agreement between the high school and the post secondary institution. (This type of concurrent enrollment would include 11th and 12th grade students enrolling pursuant to K.A.R. 88-26-3, as amended, and any non-degree-seeking student.) In another type, a high school teacher teaches a college-level course to high school students at the high school during the regular high school day. The latter must conform to section b. of this policy.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Barton's Concurrent College program is a great opportunity for high school sophomores, juniors, seniors and gifted underclassmen to experience college while they are still in high school. Students who choose the Concurrent College program learn first-hand the demands of going to college. They experience the process of enrolling in college classes and get a feel for the costs associated with college tuition, fees and textbooks. The Concurrent College experience eases a student's transition from high school to college and provides academic enrichment to students who are ready for the challenge of college coursework. Participation in the program exposes students (and their families) to valuable learning lessons that will support a student's remaining college career. Students who choose college while in high school may make considerable progress towards their college education if the appropriate time and focus is given to their studies. Barton classes are offered at affordable rates when compared to state universities and students enjoy accessibility to instructors within small classroom settings.
STUDENT ELIGIBILITY
Students interested in the Fort Riley Barton Concurrent College program must:
1. Have a valid military or DOD identification card
2. Written approval from the student's high school principal or home school associate. This approval will be indicated by the appropriate designee's signature on the college enrollment form.
SPECIAL NOTE: Under Kansas Board of Regents requirements, high school students who take college courses during the school day at their high school location must meet minimum placement scores. This requirement applies to classes taught by instructors who are both associate college faculty and who also teach courses for the school district. As a result of this requirement, Barton requires that high school students successfully pass a reading assessment. Other placement requirements may apply.
WHAT ARE THE CONCURRENT COLLEGE BENEFITS?
High school students also have the benefit of going to college with their friends. More and more students (and their families) are choosing an early approach to a college education. When asked why they are going to college while they are still in high school, the majority of students say, "all my friends are doing it!"
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A COLLEGE STUDENT IN HIGH SCHOOL?
Choosing to begin college while in high school requires not only an interest to get ahead; it also means students must be prepared for a new level of academic rigor and standards. In addition to meeting Barton's eligibility requirements, students who are considering a "jumpstart" must recognize that they will be participating in coursework that is equivalent to classes that are offered on the college campus. Students will be exposed to increased study time, additional reading assignments, homework projects and comprehensive testing as appropriate to the coursework. Students taking college coursework should understand and follow individual faculty member's attendance requirements. Regular class attendance is necessary for student success.
"STARTING COLLEGE WHILE IN HIGH SCHOOL"
WHAT STUDENT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE TO COLLEGE STUDENTS?
Advisement is one of the keys to a successful college education. The availability of advisement services assists students with information on career opportunities, enrollment procedures, course transferability and degree completion. Barton students can expect student-centered advisement designed to increase student success by promoting continuous contact between the student, his/her advisor and the Barton student support structure. For more information or to schedule an advisement appointment, contact
Kandi LeClear, Advisement Coordinator, at 785-784-6606 or via email at lecleark@bartonccc.edu
Barton' provides a tutor center for all Barton and the Fort Riley Consortium colleges and universities. The service offers academic support in: math, speech, sciences, accounting, English, psychology, and history. To contact a Fortt Riley Tutor Center, call 1-785-240-3617.
Concurrent College students have access to a Barton Student Handbook. The handbook may be found at www.bartonccc.edu/publications/studenthandbook
FINAL NOTE TO PARENTS & STUDENTS
The choice to enroll a high school student in college classes is both an opportunity and a challenge. Finances, college policies, and increased student workload are all factors to consider when choosing to "jump-start" a college education. There are also many benefits linked to early college education experiences. Overall, the decision requires commitment from both parents and students. Federal regulations protect a student's right to privacy and as such parents are not entitled to open communication with college officials about their child's progress regardless of the student's age. A student must complete a FERPA document and file it with Barton's Office of Enrollment Services in order for parents to have access to student information. The FERPA document may be found at http://www.bartonccc.edu/ferpa/default.htm.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
A student's school district must sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Barton Community College in order for concurrent coursework to be offered. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must complete an enrollment form that includes their principal's or home school associate's signature.
There are deadlines associated with course enrollment and if missed, students will not have the opportunity to earn college credit. Students should verify with their college instructor that they are enrolled in a course for college credit. Students pay the same tuition and fees as any Barton student. In most instances, students will also be responsible for the payment of a textbook for each class. Tuition, fees and textbook payments are due prior to the start of class. Minimum and maximum enrollment numbers apply to college courses. Minimum enrollment will be based on paid students. Maximum
enrollments vary by class. Students should complete the enrollment process as early as possible to ensure a spot in the specific course.
