For most of us, enjoying success in a career is a big part of the “American Dream.” And for most people, the best way to achieve that success is with a great education. Education is the cornerstone of our society, giving people the tools they need to make an impact and, perhaps, inspire change. If you are a parent, you know that a quality education is the best path to your teen up for a bright future. This is why you may want to consider a college preparatory program.

What is a college preparatory program? A college preparatory program is a program that prepares students for their future college coursework, while still attending high school. The mix of traditional high school courses, combined with higher academic standards, is designed to establish a solid foundation for teens as they get ready for their future college careers.

The transition to college can be an overwhelming experience for high schoolers, which is why a college preparatory school can help make that adjustment easier. Students are taught by real college professors who follow a real college syllabus — giving them an early taste of what will be expected of them in their college courses. In taking these college courses, students can develop important skills needed for postsecondary success, such as:

• Time management
• Good study habits
• Independence
• Organization
• Self-discipline
• Self-motivation

College preparatory programs often use block scheduling, helping students adjust to longer class times that they will experience in college. They also place focus on big exams and presentations, which students will need to prepare for at their future college or university of choice. There is much more responsibility placed on the student of a college preparatory program. Independent study is emphasized, allowing teens to find the best methods of learning for themselves.

College can also be an overwhelming social experience, as well. With an early college preparatory high school, students can connect with fellow students at the same level, online and on-campus, just as they would in college.

Here in the United States, college preparatory programs may be found in public, private, and charter schools. The term “college prep school” is typically associated with elite institutions that come with very selective admissions and steep tuition costs. But there is another way to prepare your student for their postsecondary education.

A college high school — also known as an early college high school — gives students the opportunity to earn real college credit in high school. Much like a college preparatory program, college high schools offer an early college model of education for students looking for preparation. One of the top choices for college high school for students in the Greater Hartford area is Connecticut River Academy.

Connecticut River Academy offers students the chance to earn college credit in high school, without the additional tuition costs. Not only do students have their choice of a full range of high school courses, they can also earn up to 30 transferable college credits. This helps save on long-term costs of attending college, while simultaneously preparing them for the years ahead.

At Connecticut River Academy, the curriculum is centered around sustainability and teaching students the importance of making responsible choices in areas like economy, society, and nature. As an early college magnet school, CTRA is centered around the themes of environmental and manufacturing studies, helping students further their passions and skillsets in these and related subjects.

Think an early college high school would be a good choice for the student in your life? Learn more about Connecticut River Academy or the magnet schools at Goodwin College. Sign up for an Open House event