When Caleb entered 9th grade, an advisor from LifeTech Academy introduced the Early Middle College (EMC) program as an option. Theresa, Caleb’s mom, knew right away that it was worth exploring.
“Caleb had been with LifeTech for a year, and I could already see he had the organizational skills and interest in higher learning that is a plus for any kid entertaining the idea,” Theresa explained.
“The main goal for Caleb was to graduate high school with an Associate’s Degree. My goal was to give him a preview of what college courses will be like before sending him to a University. The experience he has had is priceless,” Theresa added.
A Day in the Life
Every day looks a little different for Caleb.
“Caleb is very self-sufficient and organized. He starts his day with his farm chores and then dives into his high school courses. He then starts his college courses according to the schedule laid out in the syllabus for each class. He will break for lunch, but for the most part, he works until it’s done. Some days he finishes in the early afternoon. Other days, he works until dinner,” Theresa said.
“He really enjoyed his Esports courses. He got to play video games! They also gave him a lot of different perspectives in that particular business,” Theresa added.
Caleb’s family also enjoys the flexibility LifeTech offers.
“As a parent, it’s nice to have him home to help out. It also gave us the opportunity to go places and take trips during the week. That would not have been an option with traditional in-person school. There is a lot to learn outside the classroom,” Theresa said.
Support That Makes a Difference
For Theresa, one of the most meaningful aspects of the LifeTech Academy experience is the support system.
“Caleb’s mentor has been fantastic! He has always been there for him and me when needed. We also have to give kudos to the advisors who have helped with organizing each semester’s classes, both at the college and high school. For a parent with no college experience, it can get confusing,” Theresa said.
Growth and Confidence
Caleb’s hard work and LifeTech Academy’s unique structure have helped Caleb grow beyond academics.
“After many nervous first days in his college courses, Caleb was thrilled to get As in his courses. He really didn’t think he could pull it off,” Theresa said.
“His confidence has grown threefold! He still gets nervous at the start of each semester, but having done this over and over, he gets into the groove more easily now. This will serve him well when he goes away to college. He won’t have as big an adjustment to make as some of the other students who haven’t had the experience,” she added.
College Credits and Cost Savings
Caleb’s hard work has put him ahead of schedule academically.
“He is two semesters away from earning his Associate’s Degree,” Theresa shared.
Caleb’s family has seen major cost savings through our Early Middle College program.
“Between the cost of each class, the technology needed, and the cost of books, it has been a huge savings for us,” Theresa said.
Looking Ahead
Caleb’s EMC experience is already shaping his future beyond high school.
“He can focus on earning a Bachelor’s Degree in less time. It gave him experience in a subject that he can now pursue,” Theresa said.
Advice for Families
For parents who are considering EMC, Theresa has plenty of wisdom to share.
“The advisors were so supportive and took a lot of the stress off us as parents. I also enjoyed the chance to have open discussions with Caleb on the things he was studying. That interaction was something I learned to appreciate, and it gave him the confidence to have and share his own opinions. EMC is more than just college courses. It gives younger students a chance to find their own identity and opinions that they can take with them as they continue their education,” she explained.
“Don’t be afraid to allow your child to try it. The support is there when you need it.”
Inspired by Caleb’s story? Reach out to your academic team to learn more about the Early Middle College program and how your learner can get a head start on college while still in high school.
