Counselor Corner
Running Start Program
Running Start is a program intended to provide students in grades 11 and 12 an option consisting of attendance at one of Washington’s 34 community and technical colleges and the simultaneous earning of high school and college/university credit courses. Students register at a local college while maintaining enrollment in high school. The added bonus is the cost savings, as students receive both high school and college credit for these classes, thus accelerating their progress through the education system. Running Start students have the opportunity to finish their high school diploma while earning college credit
ISWA Counselors support students interested in participating in Running Start (RS) by helping students explore if RS is a good fit, planning/tracking graduation credits, and signing quarterly Enrollment Verification Forms. Counselors are NOT able to provide support to students with their college enrollment or class registration processes.
Every college has its own Running Start application process. Please be sure to follow all the steps required and read your emails carefully! Counselors are NOT able to provide support for the college portion of the Running Start process. We highly encourage attending an information session before applying!
Key Points to Remember -
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Students are responsible for setting up a meeting with your ISWA counselor at least 5 days prior to each enrollment period to have your Enrollment Verification Form signed (email your counselor for an appointment).
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If you are taking classes at both ISWA and a college, it is your responsibility to coordinate your ISWA schedule so that you do not miss ISWA classes. Arriving late or leaving early from a ISWA class is not an option.
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The Quillayute Valley School District covers the tuition for RS classes up to the state limit of 21 college credits per quarter. Students are responsible for other costs including:
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Tuition for each credit beyond that authorized on the Enrollment Verification Form.
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Tuition for any below college-level class (classes numbered under 100 – for example: Math 075-099).
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Textbooks and class fees.
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Parking and transportation.
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Fee Waivers available for students that qualify (contact the Running Start office at the college for more information).