Duarte Unified updates dual-enrollment course substitutions, emphasizes expanded access

The Board of Education approved updates clarifying which Citrus College dual-enrollment courses may substitute for high-school core graduation requirements and discussed broader early-college access at Duarte High School. Motion to approve the course substitutions was made by Board Member Reyes and seconded by Board Member Haso; the motion passed 5-0.

District staff explained the changes stem from course-title revisions at Citrus College and a periodic review of the district’s CCAP (dual-enrollment) agreement that began in 2008. Staff identified the specific substitutions included in the update as courses that replace English 11, economics, government and U.S. history for high-school graduation requirements; otherwise, most dual-enrollment courses count as electives and provide both high-school and college credit.

Mister Harrow said participation at the high school is about 23 percent and described recent program expansions, including a new administrative-justice pathway that can lead to a certificate and employment after graduation. Board members and staff emphasized access: district leaders said the program’s “a la carte” option allows students to join at different points rather than only through a cohort model.

Board members publicly thanked staff and noted the program’s long history; staff also recognized Norm Anderson’s role in building the early-college partnerships. No additional policy changes were adopted beyond the course-list updates.