Education leaders from across the state gathered in Boston on March 23^rd to launch an initiative to dramatically expand access to early college programs in Massachusetts. A model pioneered by Gateway Cities over the last decade, early college was a central strategy outlined in the 2013 Gateway Cities education vision.

The new initiative seeks to scale early college programs that incorporate five key design elements:

1. Equitable access;
2. Guided academic pathway;
3. Robust student supports;
4. Relevant connection to careers; and
5. Deep partnerships

The goal is to enroll an additional 4,000 students per grade level in early college programs at an additional costs of $800 per student. Secretary Peyser, emphasized that the state can afford to make this investment and the long-term returns to the Commonwealth will be large. The Baker administration will seek funds in FY 2018 for planning grants, and will work with the Department of Elementary and Secondary and Education, the Department of Higher Education, and the legislature to secure sufficient resources to scale and sustain these programs going forward.