Did you know that middle school students in St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools can earn enough credits to start high school as a sophomore?

And, this upcoming school year, our middle schools are adding even more courses to help students get a jump start on their high school educations.

But you may ask yourself why this is a good thing?

Well, beyond the advantages providing more challenging coursework for students, the answer is an important one for students planning to continue their educations beyond high school.

Figuring out how to pay for their post-secondary education is the first major financial decision most students will make – and it’s a big one. With the cost of tuition rising every year, students and their families can take on a financial burden that could take decades to repay.

Completing the credits required for graduation early allows students to free up time in high school to take some of the many college-level courses our school district offers and, since these courses are free to take in high school, it could result in a significant financial savings over waiting to pay to take them in college.

Taking these courses while in high school may also provide more opportunities for scholarships and allow students to complete college and enter the workforce more quickly.

While our students have had the opportunity to earn college credit in middle school for some time, next school year the offerings are being further expanded. Some courses students can earn high school credit for are:

• Algebra I and II, Computer Technology Literacy, Web Design I and II, Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering and Oil and Gas Production at Garyville-Mt. Airy Math and Science Magnet School.

• Spanish I, Speech I, Introduction to Business Computer Applications, Computer Literacy and World Geography at East St. John Elementary.

• Reading I, Art or Band, Career Awareness, Computer Technology Literacy and Television Production Studio at John L. Ory Communication Arts Magnet School.

• Computer literacy and band join other high school credit courses such as Speech, Journey to Careers, Health and Algebra I already offered at Lake Pontchartrain Elementary.

These courses are available to students depending on their grade level but, generally, those in the sixth through eighth grades. Some have special requirements to participate.

Parents of students in those grades should begin the conversation with their children about where their interests are regarding the elective courses being offered and make a long-term plan for how to earn early high school and college credits.

If you have questions, talk to your child’s teacher or guidance counselor.

Jennifer Boquet is the communications specialist for St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools. Email her at jboquet@stjohn.k12.la.us.