Northeast Dubois Jr/Sr High School earns prestigious Early College High School endorsement

Endorsed Early College High Schools are a proven model to improve college-going and college success

Northeast Dubois Jr/Sr High School was recognized as an endorsed Early College High School by the Center of Excellence in Leadership of Learning (CELL) at the University of Indianapolis on April 4, 2025.

Endorsed Early College High Schools offer students the opportunity to graduate from high school with a high school diploma and the Indiana College Core, an associate degree, a technical credential, or 15 or more dual credits, reducing barriers between high school and college.

For the 2022 cohort, 79% of Early College High School program graduates went on to college, compared to 53% of Indiana graduates.

“Being named an endorsed Early College High School reflects our innovative approach to education. We’re reimagining what high school can be and how far our students can go,” Principal Andy Chinn said. “This program is an investment not just in our students, but in our community’s future. We’re equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in college, career, and beyond.”

“We are extremely proud to receive this endorsement,” added Assistant Principal Tracy Gutgsell. “Our Early College program is helping students take charge of their futures by earning college credit and building the skills needed for lifelong success. This recognition highlights the incredible efforts of our students and staff. It’s exciting to see our Early College program making a real difference in student outcomes.”

Early College programs are a nationally recognized model enabling students to earn college credit while in high school. In Indiana, CELL endorses–or accredits–high-quality Early College High Schools based on their adherence to meeting eight core principles, such as establishing a college-going culture and providing strong student supports.

Northeast Dubois Jr/Sr High approaches Early College as a whole school cohort. All students have the opportunity to earn dual credits and earn the Indiana College Core distinction. Our number of ICC graduates has continued to grow over the past few years. By providing these courses, it saves families thousands of dollars as they move into their post-secondary education.

To be considered for endorsement, Northeast Dubois Jr/Sr High School prepared a portfolio that addressed the eight core principles of Early College High Schools. In addition, a team from CELL visited the school to interview stakeholders about the program and its benefits and challenges before designating the program as endorsed.

As of the 2023-2024 school year, 60 high schools across the state were recognized as endorsed Early
College High Schools. For more information about Early College High Schools and a list of endorsed schools, visit
cell.uindy.edu/earlycollege.