High school seniors in Northeastern Wisconsin school districts could earn up to a year of college credits before graduation as part of a pilot program the University of Wisconsin System is beginning with UW-Oshkosh geared toward students who want to work in technology.
It will be available in Oshkosh, Neenah, Fond Du Lac, and Kaukauna. Students in Middleton will also be able to participate.
Gov. Scott Walker said the “one plus three” program is tailored for IT classes because those jobs are in demand, especially in Wisconsin.
Stay informed on the latest news
Sign up for WPR’s email newsletter.
“With this program, with the leadership not only with the (UW) System but at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and the program they have, which is by far the largest and one of of the most successful dual enrollment programs, not only in the state but in the country. This is the perfect spot to start when it comes to information services and computer science jobs,” Walker said.
If students meet certain academic standards they may earn up to a year’s worth of college credits free of charge.
UW System President Ray Cross said the program is part of the university’s outreach.
“We want to work more closely with K-12 to do this in other fields the state needs as well,” Cross said. “Can we expand this in ways that actually make it more meaningful for high school students to understand the opportunities that exist right here in our home state?”
The UW System is spending $900,000 on the pilot.
Wisconsin Public Radio, © Copyright 2024, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.
