The state announced $500,000 in grant funding Jan. 30 to expand dual enrollment programs in four New Jersey school districts, increasing opportunities for students to earn college credits while they are in high school.

The pilot initiative is a partnership between the Department of Education and the Office of Secretary of Higher Education. It was a direct recommendation from the New Jersey Dual Enrollment Commission, which called on the state to expand access to dual enrollment programs, particularly for under-resourced students.

Officials say the effort advances another pillar of the New Jersey State Plan for Higher Education.

The grant opportunity required collaboration between institutes of higher education (IHEs) and local education agencies (LEAs), with a focus on student groups with traditionally lower dual enrollment participation. To be eligible, LEAs had to show a minimum enrollment of 40% economically disadvantaged high school students as well as an established partnership – or intention to partner – with an accredited IHE in the Garden State.

Grants went to:
(LEAs listed with collaborating IHEs)

• Middlesex County Vocational and Technical School District — Middlesex College
• Orange Board of Education School District — Kean University
• Hillside Public School District — Thomas Edison State University
• Vineland Public School District — Rowan University and Rowan College of South Jersey

In a press release, Gov. Phil Murphy said the announcement reflects his administration’s continued focus on affordable access to a high-quality college education.

“Alongside expansions of financial aid and other critical efforts shaped by our State Plan for Higher Education, dual enrollment is developing early and cost-effective ways to a degree for our high school students within their local community,” said Murphy. “By expanding these opportunities, we’re closing gaps to ensure every student has the ability to pursue higher education.”

“The State Dual Enrollment Pilot Program represents an exciting development in New Jersey’s ongoing commitment to elevating education opportunity,” said Angelica Allen-McMillan, the outgoing acting commissioner of education.

“Dual enrollment opportunities have not traditionally been available to students from under-resourced communities,” said Brian Bridges, New Jersey secretary of higher education. “By expanding New Jersey’s dual enrollment partnerships through this funding, we continue to break down barriers to ensure greater numbers of high school students are given the opportunity to pursue postsecondary pathways and to succeed.

“Equipping a diverse pool of learners in this way is critical in developing the workforce needed to fuel New Jersey’s future.”