News

By Alex Freeman, MCC Communications Specialist

Montcalm Community College (MCC) and Carson City-Crystal Area School District (CC-C) recently signed an agreement that allows students to expand their educational opportunities.

The two schools partnered on a direct admissions initiative, which allows eligible high school juniors, entering their senior year, early admission to MCC and it streamlines the transition from high school to college.

Throughout the summer, MCC will establish college student accounts for CC-C students.Prior to the start of their senior year, the incoming seniors will receive acceptance letters from MCC, providing them with college credentials.

“This direct admission agreement reflects our commitment to expanding access to higher education and creating a seamless path for Carson City-Crystal students to pursue their academic and career goals,” said MCC Dean of Student and Enrollment Services Francisco Ramirez. “This agreement empowers students by giving them early assurance that they have a place at our college. It’s a proactive step in building confidence and ambition among high school students.”

“At MCC, we believe in creating a place of belonging — where everyone has a seat at the table,” added MCC President Dr. Bradley J. Barrick. “This direct admission agreement with Carson City-Crystal High School is an extension of that belief. Regardless of who you are or where you come from, we will welcome you, believe in you, and support you every step of the way. We’re excited to open our doors wider and make college more accessible for all students.”

As part of the agreement, MCC and CC-C will collaborate on hosting informational sessions and workshops for students and parents to explain the benefits of the direct admissions program and help with the financial aid process. MCC will offer guidance to CC-C's direct admissions students with their course selection, dual enrollment opportunities and career pathways.

Carson City-Crystal Student Advisor and Curriculum Director Erin Verwys expressed excitement about the partnership and how it will allow more students to feel empowered regarding post-secondary education.

"We're thrilled that we get to be the first school in our county that builds an opportunity like this right into our district,” Verwys said. “By giving our seniors this opportunity, they get the chance to be prepared for anything they want to do once they graduate, regardless of their plans. It alleviates some of the hurdles that our seniors may have or even things that they assume could eventually be obstacles.

“With this partnership, our seniors will also have doors open for them that are found right in our district. MCC will work hand-in-hand with us to assist with financial aid applications, college transition, and any other post-secondary needs that our students may have.”

Carson City-Crystal will have five MCC classes taught in-person at the high school and more than 50 students are scheduled to participate in dual enrollment next year.

“We are so grateful that we are able to build a partnership with a team that is as eager to improve our students' future as we are,” Verwys added.

Visit montcalm.edu/get-started for more information about becoming an MCC student, or contact MCC’s Student Services at studentservices@montcalm.edu or (989) 328-1277.