COLLEGE-CREDIT PROGRAM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Early College Pathways is a program for high school students who would like to explore careers in STEAM fields. It introduces students to core areas in the sciences, technology, health, engineering, mathematics, and the arts.

2021-2022 Course: Pathways to STEAM Kansas City, Here We Stand: An Exploration of Black Artistic Resistance (PTWY 1000)

This academic program will explore the rich traditions, legacies, and history of Kansas City's Black musicians, artists, and community organizers.  We will investigate arts as a form of resistance, songs as means of storytelling, music as communion and liberation, and Black culture as an organizing principle.  Using Kansas City as our campus, and the unprecedented uprising in response to ongoing police brutality and systemic racism as our sociohistorical context, we will explore Black culture, art, and music locally. This course will include day trips to Kansas City. You will need to be able to provide your own transportation.

The Early College Pathways Program is also an opportunity for students to meet new friends who are also interested in learning about and planning for the transition to college.

• Earn 3 hours of college credit from Rockhurst University.
• Interact with university faculty, industry leaders, and peers.
• Present your course project to peers, parents, and faculty.
• Add the Early College Pathways Program to your resume.

There are four components to the Early College Pathways Program, including activities for students and special sessions for parents:

• Student course sessions: Students are required to attend all course sessions as stated in the class syllabus. Sessions take place on Saturdays typically for 1-3 hours from 10 am-1 pm depending on the session format.
• Student Project: Students will work individually or in small groups to complete a required project for the course.
• Student Presentation: Students will present their projects to faculty, family, and friends.
• College-Parent Education Series: Parents and guardians participate in three, preparing-for-college information sessions with university administrators and staff.

IMPORTANT 2021-2022 PROGRAM DATES (Subject to change)

• September 11, 2021: Program Orientation & Student/Parent Workshop (In-Person)
• September 25, 2021: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• October 9, 2021: Student Workshop (In-Person)
• October 23, 2021: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• November 6, 2021: 18th and Vine District Tour (In-Person)
• November 20, 2021: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• December 11, 2021: Student & Parent Session (In-Person)
• January 15, 2022: Nelson Atkins Art Tour (In-Person)
• February 5, 2022: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• February 19, 2022: Bruce R Watkins Cultural Center (In-Person)
• March 12, 2022: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• April 2, 2022: Eric Swafford, Civil Rights Tour (In-Person)
• April 23, 2022: Student Workshop (Zoom)
• May 7, 2022: Final Presentation Practice (In-Person)
• May 14, 2022: Bruce R Watkins Cultural Center: Symposium and Graduation (In-Person)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does it cost to attend?

There is no cost to attend. However, students must commit to attend and participate in all program sessions and completing all assignments and activities. Students will receive a grade, and upon successful completion, college credit for the course.

How will the program be offered?

The 2021-2022 program will be offered in a blended format of on-campus, local facilities, and zoom with Covid safety precautions in place.

What is the deadline application?

To be considered for admission into the 2021-2022 program, students must submit ALL required documents by July 31, 2021.

How do I apply and what are the required documents?

     Application: Each student must complete an application for admission to the program. Submit your application for the 2021-22 course here.

This application includes the following:

• Letter of Interest: Students must submit a one-page letter indicating why they are interested in participating in the program.
• Letter from Parent and/or Guardian: The student’s parent or guardian must write a letter indicating their authorization for the student to participate in the program; and their commitment to attend at least two of the three College-Parent Educational Sessions. This letter must be sent as part of the application documents.
• Official Transcripts: Show a minimum of 3.0 GPA for Seniors, 3.2 for Juniors, 3.3 for Sophomores and a 3.4 for Freshmen
• Letter of approval:  HS Counselor for Juniors and Seniors. HS Counselor AND HS Principle for Sophomores and Freshmen

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

If you have further questions, please contact the ACCP Admissions Coordinator Taryn James by phone (816) 501-4258 or email ACCP@rockhurst.edu.