High school students encouraged to take college courses this fall
July 18, 2025Partnership between AWC and local schools reduces college debt
Yuma, Ariz. (July 18, 2025) – This fall, high schoolers from Yuma and La Paz Counties are encouraged to enroll in Dual Credit courses with Arizona Western College. Through AWC’s Early College Program, students can earn college credit at a significantly reduced tuition rate, helping close the achievement gap and lower future college debt.
"AWC takes great pride in its Early College graduates,” said Biridiana Martinez, AWC Director of Outreach, Recruitment and Early College Program. “Their achievements stand as a testament to their unwavering dedication and hard work. We remain committed to serving our community and fostering the participation of more students in the Early College program."
The Early College program helps students gain valuable experience and confidence while accelerating their path to obtaining a college degree. Dedicated students are now graduating high school with up to two years of college already complete.
“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Arizona Western College and the Early College Program,” shared Corey Semler, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for the Yuma Union High School District. “These opportunities empower our students to dream bigger, gain a head start on their futures, and graduate high school with a clear path—and often a significant leap—toward a college degree.”
A majority of the students completing the Early College program this year attended Yuma Catholic High School, with 96 YCHS students graduating with associate degrees.
“This remarkable achievement highlights the dedication of our students and the strength of our academic partnership with AWC,” said Yuma Catholic High School President Rhett Stallworth. “This dual enrollment opportunity allows students to earn college credits while completing their high school education at Yuma Catholic. We are incredibly proud of our students’ hard work and commitment. Our partnership with AWC continues to be a vital part of our mission to prepare students for college.”
Interested students are encouraged to speak with their high school counselor at registration or contact dualcredit@azwestern.edu. A full list of participating high schools is available at this link.
Learn more about the Early College program here.
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Contact:
Mandy Heil
Dean of Marketing and Communications
Arizona Western College
mandy.heil@azwestern.edu
(928) 314-9594