Local teachers partner with Clark State to bring college credit to high school students

As many local high school students prepare for the start of classes in August, many will walk into classrooms where they'll do more than earn high school credit. They'll begin building a college transcript, thanks to teachers who have invested significant time and effort to become credentialed College Credit Plus instructors through Clark State College.

While students experience the benefits of earning college credit in a familiar classroom, many don't realize what it takes for their teachers to make that opportunity possible. College Credit Plus instructors must meet rigorous credentialing standards established by the Higher Learning Commission and Clark State, which may include completing graduate-level coursework in their discipline, submitting academic credentials for review and participating in ongoing professional development.

“The opportunity for students to earn college credit while still in high school begins with exceptional teachers,” said Caity Sellers, Clark State’s director of early college programs. “Our College Credit Plus instructors invest significant time and effort to meet college credentialing standards because they believe in expanding opportunities for their students. Their commitment allows students to experience the rigor of college coursework with the support of a trusted high school teacher, as well as save significant time and money on furthering their education.”

Because of those efforts, students enrolled in College Credit Plus courses earn the same college credit as students taking those classes on a Clark State campus. The credits can save students time and money, provide a head start on a degree or certificate and help ease the transition to college after high school graduation.

The Clark State class of 2026 included 53 College Credit Plus degrees and certificates earned by high school students completing college coursework and earning associate degrees while still in high school.

There is still time for students to enroll in College Credit Plus courses before Clark State's fall semester begins Aug. 17. Students interested in participating should contact their high school counselor, visit go.clarkstate.edu/startearly or email Laura McCabe, CCP advisor, at ccp@clarkstate.edu.