Vail High School students get head start ahead of graduation [Video]

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — TUCSON, Ariz – Vail High School students have a unique opportunity to get an early start on their college careers through the Vail Early College program.

“When I heard about the program, I thought it was amazing, like a head start to my career path,” says Ellie Mertes, a senior at Cienega High School.

On its seventh year, the program has tied their highest number of students since 2020.

“Seeing that growth means that students see the benefits that the program offers, because, you know, students go and talk to their peers and their family and friends,” says Raylee May, the coordinator of the Vail Early College program.

High school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to take up to 15 credits a semester. May does say that seniors get priority, and juniors are chosen after.

Ellie Mertes’ goal is to be a forensic pathologist. She …