New Bedford High School is proud to be a part of the Massachusetts Early College Initiative, bringing access to college completion and career success to our students, especially those traditionally underrepresented in higher education. The Early College program blends elements of high school and college to provide students with the opportunity to experience and complete college level academic coursework on a clear pathway while gaining exposure to a variety of career opportunities.
The Early College program is designed to allow students to earn a minimum of 12 college credits for FREE while earning their high school diploma. New Bedford High School has partnered with Bristol Community College, UMass Dartmouth, and Bridgewater State University, to offer a variety of pathways geared towards specific areas of study and careers. All courses are taught by Bristol and UMass professors. Seniors in the Bristol cohort take courses in downtown New Bedford, while all other courses are held on-site at NBHS.
Students participating in the Early College program will have access to a wide range of support, including:
Academic, college planning, and career exploration support
Services as identified in a student's IEPs, 504 Plans, and required English Learner Services
Engaged and attentive faculty
A Peer Mentor
Academic Support services at the colleges, including tutoring
...and much more!
Early College Partnerships:
NBHS is proud to have two designated Early College partnerships. Our first partnership was established in 2022 with Bristol Community College. In the spring of 2025, we received designation from the state for our partnership with UMass Early College. We are presently in the process of applying for a designated partnership with Bridgewater State University. At full capacity, we will serve 150 juniors and seniors in Early College at NBHS.
OneGoal
As part of the Early College program, students are also enrolled with OneGoal, our partner in college and career planning. The OneGoal program is designed to help students navigate the exploration, application, and enrollment process of their chosen postsecondary paths. Students continue to receive support as they transition to their postsecondary path and throughout their first year after high school.
Interested?
Fill out an interest survey here.
Questions? Get in touch!
Email [email protected]
Early College Program Contacts:
Kathryn Grande, Early College Instructional Liaison
[email protected]
Jennifer Pinhal, Early College School Counselor
[email protected]
Amanda Campos, Early College Partner Teacher
acampos@newbedfordschools.org
Jennifer McGuire, College & Career Information Coordinator
[email protected]
Jeff Longo, Associate Principal NBHS
jlongo@newbedfordschools.org