In an effort to strengthen its partnership with Jamestown Public Schools to prepare students for life after graduation, JCC is providing a variety of college readiness services at Jamestown High School through a pilot program.
Carmen Perez, the career development liaison for the JCC/JHS partnership which is located in a collaboration space in the JHS library, helps JHS students -- with a special focus on Latino students – explore college and career pathway opportunities. Ms. Perez also spends one day each week at JCC’s Jamestown Campus, guiding recent Latino JHS graduates.
“The importance of college readiness is part of our impetus to work with one of the largest high schools in JCC’s service area,” said JCC president Daniel DeMarte. “A navigator program that provides college preparation services benefits both JHS and JCC.”
“I'm excited about my new role,” said Ms. Perez. “I've been reaching out and connecting with many JHS students by providing a comfortable and inviting space for them to come in and learn about the college experience.
“I'm here to work with students individually and answer questions regarding their plans for the future,” added Ms. Perez, “and I am also encouraging JHS students to take JCC College Connections courses while still enrolled in high school.”
JCC has offered concurrent enrollment courses to qualified high school juniors and seniors through the College Connections program since 1998. The courses, taught in partner high schools by JCC credentialed teachers, allow students to earn both high school and college credit. During the 2018-19 academic year, 199 JHS students were enrolled in College Connections courses.
“JCC is a jewel in our community and many of our students choose to attend JCC after high school,” said JPS superintendent Bret Apthorpe.
“We want to ensure that all JHS students are educated about their college and career options and have an opportunity to ask questions and gain more information. Ms. Perez is an important part of our district’s goal to help all Jamestown youth meet their future college and career goals.”