2026 Early College Summit

Early College programs often focus on structures and outcomes—but less often center the voices of students who experience them. This panel elevates student perspectives from the Dearborn Early College Kickoff (DECK), a middle school–launched pathway that prepares students for full-time Early College enrollment. Students from DECK’s first cohort, now earning college credit in high school, will share how early academic acceleration, clear expectations, family engagement, and a paid learn-and-earn model shaped their readiness, confidence, and success. The session pairs student voice with outcome data to illustrate the impact of starting Early College preparation earlier.