The Allegany County Public Schools (ACPS) meeting on February 18, 2024, highlighted the success of the Bobcat Academy, a program in partnership with Frostburg State University (FSU) that allows high school students to earn college credits. This year, the program was piloted for 11th graders, with all but one student achieving a Seager hire in their courses, and many maintaining an A average. The program's success was credited to Tim Murphy from Allegheny High School, who provided essential guidance to the students.

In addition to the Bobcat Academy, the meeting outlined a busy spring scheduling timeline. School counselors will engage with students from grades 8 to 11 to discuss various academic opportunities, including dual enrollment and completer programs in fields like agriculture and biomedical science. Students will begin selecting their courses online in late February, followed by meetings in March to review their four-year academic plans.

Dr. Caldwell, who presented the updates, expressed pride in the diversity and rigor of the programs available to students, noting the significant increase in Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment participation. He emphasized the importance of these programs in making higher education more accessible and affordable for families, reflecting on his own positive experiences with similar opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a promise of further updates on a successful college orientation program called "Habits for Success," which was conducted in collaboration with Allegheny College. Overall, the discussions underscored ACPS's commitment to providing valuable educational pathways for its students.