Running Start is a statewide partnership between community and technical colleges
and local high schools.
Running Start is a program that allows 11th and 12th grade students to take college
courses at Washington's 34 community and technical colleges. Students earn both high
school and college credits for these courses.
College credits completed in Running Start will transfer to most colleges and universities,
saving the student time, effort and money. Students can select a schedule that works
for them and allows them to easily coordinate classes, work, family, faith and other
personal commitments.
- Students may enroll simultaneously in high school and college classes, or solely at
the college.
- LCC offers day, evening, and online courses
- Students receive both high school and college credit for classes completed at the
college.
- Students do not need the permission of the high school to enroll in the program, the
student and parents make this choice.
Students can still participate in athletics and clubs at their high school, as much
as they choose. Additionally, they can participate in clubs, events and activities
at Lower Columbia College.
The program was created by the Washington State Legislature RCW 28B.50.535 in order to provide students an opportunity to take college courses while still in
high school.