Early College Alliance

ECA is really two programs - a limited (algebra/geometry, english, soclial studies, science/biology) 10th grade high school program which is designed to prep students for college, and early college which is matriculating classes at EMU. Students enter in 10th grade (usually) from participating districts, but might join in 9th grade if they are academically gifted. Students are assessed using College placement tests, then enter either the high school (taught by HS teachers) or after 1-2 semesters EMU classes. ECA emphasizes 'soft skills' and about 1/3 of grades are based on who well students take notes, are organized, etc. plus tests. The HS classes are taught with college textbooks with some classes, such as biology , using a standard and advanced college text. Teachers range from outstanding to offbeat to downright odd, but a re very dedicated. A PhD tutor is provided for science help. After the kids master soft skills, they join EMU classes. Parental communication is limited with an emphasis on preparing the student Our experience was pretty good, but followup for subsequent college admissions was inadequate. Good for highly motivated, organized, academically talented students
—Submitted by a parent

ECA is a specialized high school/early college program at EMU. The program is small enough that the kids all get a lot of personal attention & flexibility, yet it also leverages all of the resources of the EMU campus. Teachers & staff are extraordinarily dedicated and know how to work with students who fell through the cracks at a traditional high school. In addition to a strong academic focus, there is a great deal of emphasis on life skills & college readiness during the first year in the program (being self-motivated, responsible, making good choices, etc.). Students who complete the ECA program graduate high school with up to 60 college credits (from EMU) - for free.
—Submitted by a parent