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Chatham County Schools highlights Kenan-Flagler opportunity, dual-enrollment costs and assessment benchmarks
Summary
District staff described a new partnership with UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School for a no-cost five-day business immersion for eligible juniors and seniors, summarized dual-enrollment pathways (district pays roughly $65,000 per semester for tuition/books), and reviewed benchmark assessments and early-literacy screening practices used to monitor student progress.
Chatham County Schools staff briefed the board on Jan. 12 about new and existing college- and career-preparation opportunities and how the district uses benchmark assessments to target instruction.
Chris Poston, interim assistant superintendent of academics, described a partnership with UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School to offer a fully customized, five-day experience for eligible juniors and seniors to act as student consultants for local Chatham County businesses. Staff said the opportunity is provided at no cost to the district and will be marketed to eligible students; earlier pilot programs in Charlotte involved about 18 Chatham County students.
On dual enrollment and the College and Career Promise, staff said students can earn concurrent high school and college credits via community colleges and four-year institutions. District staff noted the program costs the district about $65,000 per semester to cover tuition and books for participating students. Eligibility typically includes an unweighted GPA minimum of 2.8 and colleges generally recommend students begin dual enrollment in the 11th grade, though exceptions can be made for earlier grades with additional approval.
Staff also reviewed assessment and benchmarking systems used across the district: STAR Reading and STAR Math for screening, NC check-ins aligned with grade-level standards, i-Ready for K–5 math, and the 'In Class' early-literacy screener (Amplify) for kindergarten through third grade. Administrators described how teachers use data huddles, walk-throughs, and targeted interventions to address areas of need and to plan acceleration or remediation. District leaders encouraged parents to discuss reports with teachers and noted that teacher teams provide additional reports and guidance at conferences.
Board members asked about transcript impacts from failed college courses and eligibility criteria for younger accelerated students; staff said college transcripts stay with the student, and a failed course can affect future admissions and financial-aid eligibility, underscoring the district’s guidance to delay enrollment until students are academically ready.
No vote was taken; the items were informational and part of broader program updates.
