Early College students describe college readiness gains; program reports credit savings and improved GPAs

Chester High School’s Early College program presented student outcomes at the January board meeting, featuring seniors who described increased independence, advocacy and preparedness for postsecondary study.

Assistant Principal and Early College Director Hubert Jacobar introduced senior Dakota Sanders, who told trustees the program helped her transition to college life, develop independence and clarify career goals. Jacobar said students who previously had low GPAs have shown marked improvement after entering the early college pathway; he cited one student who raised her GPA from 1.9 to 2.7 and now plans to pursue nursing.

District figures presented: first‑semester cumulative average for Early College students was 83.37%. Jacobar reported savings to families from dual‑enrollment credits—juniors saved $2,761 and seniors saved $2,423 in semester 1, and roughly $31,000 in credits were scheduled for the second semester at the time of the presentation. The program offered campus visits, mentoring partnerships (including a mentoring program with Chester Park School of the Arts) and planned a college tour to Winthrop.

Jacobar and a student noted the program’s academic expectations—no zeros, minimum grade standards for college credit—and emphasized mentoring and job‑shadowing activities. Trustees and staff praised student presentations and recognized early college successes.

No formal vote was required; the presentation preceded other administrative reports and action items.