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Students praise district‑funded Early College credits as SCEC and virtual program expand
Summary
Students and presenters described the KU Early College Academy and the Schuylkill Valley Education Center/Virtual Academy, highlighting paid college credits, internships, community partnerships and operational challenges including flood damage and delayed IEP records.
The Schuylkill Valley School Board heard student reports and program updates on its Early College Academy and the Schuylkill Valley Education Center and Virtual Academy during its regular meeting.
Jennifer Godfrey presented the KU Early College Academy, saying the program allows students to earn up to 12 college credits while in high school through two tracks: early childhood education and exploratory studies. "By the end of the school year, students can earn up to 12 credits, which is equivalent to 1 full semester of college," Godfrey said, describing a schedule of half‑day classes and internships that permit students to gain college experience without paying tuition.
Students who participated told the board the district covering tuition made a measurable difference. "I really wanna thank the district for covering the cost of these courses," said Derek Grimm, a senior who credited the program with saving money and building his confidence to handle college‑level work. Samantha Davis, a junior, said the program will let her "essentially graduate early" by completing two years of college credit while in high school. Cecilia D'Aunzio, a recent graduate, said the paid credits and experience helped her develop independence and time‑management skills.
Board members praised the program and asked about capacity; staff said enrollment grows with student interest and counselor planning. Godfrey said courses are individualized and that interest determines participation.
The board also received an update on the Schuylkill Valley Education Center (SCEC) and the district's Virtual Academy. A district presenter reported SCEC served 53 students this year, of which 27 had IEPs, and outlined the center's daily schedule and course offerings. The presenter said the district bills reimbursements of about $193 per day for special education placements and about $78 per day for regular education students.
The presenter highlighted community partnerships that support SCEC programming — including volunteer music instruction, Parks & Rec gardening initiatives, and a visiting therapy dog — and noted efforts to expand virtual programming with weekly progress reports for families and a virtual handbook being developed for in‑house and full‑time virtual students. The report also described a December flood that required temporary relocation and ongoing challenges obtaining records and IEPs from other districts.
Taken together, board members said the programs represent substantial student opportunities and potential cost savings for the district; the board signaled interest in continuing and expanding the offerings as the district rolls out virtual‑program materials and outreach.
The board scheduled a special meeting for June 8 to vote on the 2026–27 budget and noted that Dr. Quirk's first day as superintendent will coincide with that meeting.
