WASHINGTON, DC—The Center for American Progress Action Fund and Jobs for the Future commend Congressman Rahm Emmanuel (D-IL) and Congressman Dale Kildee (D-MI) for introducing the Fast Track to College Act of 2008 and support prompt passage of this bill. The bill would create a demonstration program to support Early College High Schools and other types of dual enrollment programs—educational programs that combine high school and college so students can earn credit toward a postsecondary degree while in high school. By exposing students to college-level work, these programs prepare students for the rigors of a college education, motivate them to complete a postsecondary degree, and save them time and money in the process. Passage of this bill would make college a reality for a greater number of students.
John Podesta, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for American Progress Action Fund, asserts that, "Early College High Schools and Dual Enrollment Programs are two of the most promising innovations for expanding college access and success today." Further, he offers that "this bill will put more students on a path toward a college degree, better preparing them to succeed in our knowledge-based economy."
"The schools supported by this Act provide a jump start on college for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend—and succeed," finds Marlene Seltzer, President and CEO of Jobs for the Future. "This innovative legislation recognizes that young people need a postsecondary education to reach their maximum potential to ensure our communities and our nation are prosperous over the long run.”
To speak with our education experts at CAPAF, Cindy Brown and Robin Chait, please contact John Neurohr at [email protected].
To speak with JFF president Marlene Seltzer or Youth Transitions vice president Nancy Hoffman, please contact Jass Stewart at [email protected].