Warren Early College students continue their college transition

Some Warren Early College High School students became familiar with Vance-Granville Community College’s main campus in Vance County at a July 28 orientation session, as they transition more and more from high school to college courses. While the school is based at VGCC’s Warren County Campus in Warrenton, the junior class will now be taking many courses at the larger Main Campus . At all four of VGCC’s early college high schools, students simultaneously complete both a high school diploma and a two-year college degree (or up to two years of college-transferable credit) over a five-year period.

Students and their parents heard words of welcome from VGCC President Randy Parker, who said, “I look forward to seeing you on this campus, and I look forward to seeing you graduate here in 2013 as the first WECHS graduating class.” Dr. Angela Ballentine, the college’s vice president of instruction, added, “Our faculty members are excited to work with you. We will do everything we can to support you as you work hard to succeed.”

Greg Nash, who recently became the WECHS College Liaison and VGCC Warren Campus coordinator, emphasized that the school is a “team” effort, including the leaders of both the college and the school system, as well as the students and parents. He introduced the group to VGCC Director of Joint High School Programs Lyndon Hall, VGCC Director of Counseling Daniel Alvarado, VGCC Director of Public Safety and Preparedness Sean Newton, Warren County Schools Career Technical Education Director Ernie Conner, and WECHS Principal Laurie Baker, who is also new in her position.

After hearing from the officials, students and parents had opportunities to ask questions and took a tour of the campus.

Above: VGCC President Randy Parker addresses parents and students in the junior class at Warren Early College High School at an orientation session on the college’s main campus on July 28. (VGCC photo)