Seniors recognized as first participants in Kutztown University’s Early College Academy – Education Track

Four Upper Perkiomen High School seniors are blazing a trail toward becoming future educators through a groundbreaking partnership with Kutztown University. Anna C., Miliah H., Kylie M. and Kayleigh S. are the first students in the district to participate in Kutztown’s Early College Academy- Education Track, a program that blends college coursework with real-world classroom experience.

As part of the program, the students attend Kutztown University classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they spend mornings interning in Upper Perkiomen elementary schools, working alongside mentor teachers before returning to the high school for afternoon classes. This unique structure allows them to experience college-level academics while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field of education.

Thanks to the Pennsylvania Dual Credit Innovation Grant, each student will earn 12 college credits tuition-free, easing the financial burden on families and giving participants a head start on their path to becoming teachers.

“I was beyond excited when I received the opportunity to attend Kutztown University’s Early College Academy for Education Majors. I decided to participate in this program as I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember,” said Kylie M. “I have always loved being in the classroom environment along with the idea of being able to encourage and inspire children to reach their full potential.”

The program was brought to Upper Perkiomen through the vision and leadership of Angela Traub, college and career coordinator, who has worked to expand pathways that prepare students for success beyond graduation.

The district also extends its appreciation to the clinical educators and mentors guiding the students in their internships: Lisa Gross and Aimee Horchak at Hereford Elementary, and Dana Rosenberger, Stacy Swavely and Heather Levan at Marlborough Elementary. Their mentorship provides invaluable support as these seniors take their first steps toward careers in teaching.

“We are thrilled to partner with Kutztown University to give our students a head start on college by taking classes on a real college campus while still attending Upper Perk High School. These students are pursuing coursework that may lead them to become future teachers, but the possibilities are truly endless as we continue to grow this partnership.” said Dr. Roche, superintendent of schools. “We are proud of Anna, Miliah, Kylie and Kayleigh, and we look forward to seeing the impact they will make in education.”