SPRINGFIELD — Phoenix Charter Academy is expanding higher education access for Springfield students to earn free college credits while still in high school. The free, public school announced an innovative partnership with American International College (AIC). Through the new Pathway to College program, students can now earn fully transferable college credits at no cost, integrated directly into their high school experience.
In a move to bridge the gap between secondary and higher education, two Phoenix faculty members, Marie Keith and Diarmaid King, have been formally accredited as AIC adjunct professors. This allows Phoenix to deliver rigorous, college-level coursework on site that meets AIC’s academic standards. Upon completion, students receive official transcripts from AIC, giving them a significant head start on their post-secondary journey and reducing the long-term financial burden of a college degree.
“Succeeding at the college level while still in high school can be an incredibly impactful experience, especially for first-generation students,” Keith said. “Our students at Phoenix deserve the very best, and our partnership with AIC now allows us to combine the rigor of a college education with our unique support system, right here at Phoenix.”
The Pathway to College program is intentionally designed to support students who have been historically underrepresented in higher education. By engaging students in college coursework before high school graduation, Pathway to College demystifies the transition to college and reinforces that post-secondary success is attainable. The partnership reflects a shared commitment by AIC and Phoenix to equity, persistence, and long-term student success, and serves as a model for how secondary and post-secondary institutions can collaborate to strengthen college readiness and outcomes.
“The Pathway to College program is designed to create momentum at a critical point in students’ academic journeys,” said Michael Dodge, provost at American International College. “By allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school, we are reducing the distance between aspiration and achievement. Through this collaboration with Phoenix, students are also gaining clarity about their futures and confidence in their ability to navigate higher education. That sense of preparedness and belonging can be transformative as students move from high school into post-secondary pathways.”
The Pathway to College program exposes Phoenix students to college academics in a structured and supportive environment. Students gain familiarity with college expectations, assessment methods, and academic rigor, while continuing to receive guidance and support from their high school community. This approach helps reduce barriers that often discourage students from pursuing higher education by building confidence, academic momentum, and a sense of belonging.
More than 25 students, nearly 15% of the student body, from Phoenix Charter Academy are set to begin college through AIC in March.
