Darke County High School Students Earn Associate Degrees

It’s not everyday that you meet high school students equipped with the aptitude to successfully complete an associate degree.

Ten seniors from Franklin Monroe High School and another senior from Tri-Village High School will walk amongst their associate degree-earning peers during Edison State Community College’s 41st spring commencement ceremony on Friday, May 13.

Those earning associate degrees include Franklin Monroe seniors: Audrey Aslinger, Carrie Baker, Shania Baker, Morgan Bingham, Morgan Booher, Sydney Bowser, Colby Chrisman, Dylan Hackney, Landon Peters, and Alan Warner; and Tri-Village senior: Shelbey Dowler.

Students were able to achieve this accomplishment through Edison State’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program, which helps high-achieving students get a jump-start on their college careers. By participating in the program, students have the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credits in two years before graduating from high school. Course credits are transferrable to four-year universities under strong articulation agreements.

CCP courses can be taken at both Edison State’s Darke County campus in Greenville and participating high schools. “Needless to say, I am extremely proud of these students. I taught many of them in my Psychology class, and they are motivated and curious, exactly what you want in students,” said Jim Gish, Franklin Monroe guidance counselor/CCP instructor.

“I recommend students take CCP classes because it is an opportunity to challenge themselves and save lots of money while getting college credit,” added Gish.

“Since the average student graduates with a [bachelor’s degree] and a 35 thousand dollar debt load, this is a wonderful chance to get an associate degree or, at least, lots of college credit. I also preface my recommendations by reminding students and parents that CCP is not for everyone. It is for the self-starter and the motivated.”

Gish went on to express gratitude for Edison State Success Advisor Rhonda Rich. “I think it is a tribute to their hard work, but it is also a tribute to Rhonda Rich who mentored them through the process. We are elated for these students and their accomplishments.”

Of this year’s 377 graduates, 19% come from Darke County. This year’s commencement ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m. in the gymnasium of Edison State’s Piqua campus. State of Ohio Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor will present the evening’s keynote address.