The importance of post-secondary education and career training is more pressing—and more costly— than ever before. Together with our business community, Jackson County school districts offer interested students the chance to get a head start on both their college and career experience—tuition free!
The Jackson Area College and Career Connection Early/ Middle College (JAC3 E/MC) is a unique learning program offered through the Career Center that creates a pathway for Jackson County high school students to simultaneously earn:
- their high school diploma;
- college credit;
- a technical/career credential;
- participation within a school-to-registered apprenticeship;
- the opportunity for employment upon graduation.
All while remaining enrolled in their local high school!
JAC3 E/MC students receive more than a great learning opportunity—they are supported for post-graduate success from their first day in the program. Unique to the JAC3 E/MC is the addition of a sponsoring local business organization, which commits a vested interest in working with an individual student. This investment is represented through financial support, on-the-job training, and—in many cases— opportunities for apprenticeships, internships, and full-time employment upon graduation!
Offered through a collaboration between Jackson County high schools, the Jackson Area Career Center, Jackson College, the Jackson Area Manufacturers Association, and the Enterprise Group—the three-year program is intended for students entering their junior year of high school with an interest in pursuing careers in the engineering, manufacturing, or welding fields. By the end of the third year, they will have earned their high school diploma from their home district, up to 60 credit hours (an Associate Degree), and a technical certificate—all tuition-free for the students and their families.
