NC Lt. Governor Walter Dalton's Blog

Two articles have recently caught my attention in their discussion of the North Carolina early college program.  One was published in the New York Times and the other was published in The Washington Times.  Both detail the work of the early college program, as well as efforts to strengthen what is taught by these programs to better prepare students for higher education or careers in industries in their area.  Links to both articles are found below.

As you may know, while in the Senate, I sponsored the “Innovative Education Act” which established the state’s early college program.  The legislation laid the ground work for what has expanded into one of the most recognized and diverse programs in the nation.  I remain a fervent supporter of the work that early colleges do for their students.  The early college programs in North Carolina have a proven track record of having little, if any dropouts and children who attend such programs also have a higher likelihood of college completion. 
I also supported and chair the Joining Our Businesses and Schools (JOBS) Commission which works to partner existing early college programs with businesses to better prepare students for 21st century employment, as well as create new programs specifically tailored to the economic needs of respective communities. 

New York Times—For Students at Risk, Early College Proves a Draw

Washington Times—Impact key to Partnerships