News Article

Charlotte School Board To Vote on Edison Collegiate High School Charter

Sep 25, 2008


Punta Gorda, FL— Edison State College has received word that its application for a charter to establish the Edison Collegiate High School ECHS at the Charlotte Campus in Punta Gorda will be considered at a special School Board of Charlotte County meeting on October 7. The vote follows numerous joint meetings between college and public school officials to discuss curriculum, staffing plans and administrative arrangements.

“We are extremely pleased with the cooperation and counsel provided by Superintendent Gayler and Charlotte County Schools personnel throughout the application process, and for the opportunity to discuss the merits of the School with School Board members at a workshop earlier this month,” said Dr. Patricia Land, Edison State College’s Charlotte Campus President.

ECHS intends to serve Charlotte County students in grades 9 through 12 who seek the challenge of high academic standards, rigorous curricula, and college-level study at a small innovative high school. The focus of ECHS will be different from that of the school district because the ultimate goal is for students to graduate with an Associate in Arts AA degree and high school diploma simultaneously. With enrollment limited to 100 students at each grade level, the school will also offer a unique ability to work with underachievers.

ECHS plans to admit a cohort of 100 students per year for four consecutive years beginning with students eligible for admission to grade 9 in Fall 2009. As a public high school, ECHS will strive to reflect the county’s diversity. Applications for the initial freshman class will be accepted beginning January 2009. A web site is slated to debut in mid-October.

Land expressed excitement about moving forward with implementation plans immediately following charter approval, including building renovations to accommodate the high school. A search is underway for an experienced Principal to lead the school. Teachers and support staff positions will be posted later this year. Job announcements may be accessed at https://jobs.edison.edu.

Questions concerning the proposed collegiate high school can be sent to echs@edison.edu.

Last Updated: September 25, 2008

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