• EARLY COLLEGE

    Central Piedmont’s Early College welcomes you to our Central Campus for the fall 2024 academic year. Students in grades 9, 10, and 11 are eligible to apply through the CMS Magnet lottery process.

    WHAT IS EARLY COLLEGE?

    Early College is part of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ (CMS) Cooperative Innovative High Schools and focuses on first generation college preparatory students, underrepresented students, and students who would benefit from accelerated learning opportunities.

    As a graduate of Central Piedmont’s Early College, you will earn a high school diploma and up to two years of transferable college credit or an associate’s degree, tuition-free. Books and fees will be provided at no charge.

    BENEFITS OF EARLY COLLEGE

    There are many benefits to enrolling in Central Piedmont’s Early College, including:

    • Small classes with rigorous academics, including Honors and Advanced Placement courses
    • significant cost savings from earning college credits in high school that you can apply to a two- or four-year degree 
    • options for industry certifications and hands-on coursework in HVAC, electrical, welding, carpentry, and more
    • Access to our Career Services team who can help you identify and achieve your career goals
    • opportunities for internships and apprenticeships
    • Transportation available to Central Campus through Magnet Express Stops and public transportation

    CHARACTERISTICS OF EARLY COLLEGE STUDENTS

    Early College can be a great fit for academically-driven students who are looking for a different high school experience. Successful students typically have the following things in common:

    • Want to pursue Honors and Advanced Placement classes.
    • Care deeply about their education and future success.
    • Seek internships and other opportunities.
    • Are responsible and mature and can manage a college schedule, but still want to experience things like prom and high school athletics available through your home school.

    Does this sound like you? If so, make plans to sign up next year through the CMS School Choice Lottery. Keep an eye on the CMS calendar for lottery and magnet application deadlines.

    APPLICATION PROCESS

    Students can apply through the CMS School Choice Lottery.

    Early College is only available for CMS students. If you are not a CMS student, you may be eligible to earn college credit at Central Piedmont through Career & College Promise dual enrollment.

    STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

    Contact Principal Erik Turner with questions about the Early College at Central Piedmont.

     

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