Clark College to hold Running Start information nights

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High school sophomores and juniors can learn how to take the next step in their education by attending one of two optional Running Start Information Night sessions at Clark College.

The identical sessions will be held from 7-8 p.m. on Wed., Jan. 23 and Wed., Feb. 6 in the Clark College gymnasium in the O’Connell Sports Center, located on the southwest corner of Clark College’s main campus.

Running Start allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to earn college credit while they fulfill their high school graduation requirements. Running Start students attend Clark classes along with “regular” college students. They can choose from a full range of academic and professional/technical courses as long as the students meet the criteria and the classes are college-level.

The program, which can significantly reduce the cost of a four-year college degree, has proven popular in Southwest Washington. According to Associate Director of Running Start Linda Calvert, these annual information nights frequently attract hundreds of interested students and parents to the college, which is why the college hosts two identical sessions. In fall 2012, Clark College welcomed 1,820 Running Start students.

These information sessions are for students and parents who want to know more about beginning the program in fall 2013.

Calvert explained, “Although the information night sessions are optional, they provide a great chance to hear current Running Start students describe their experiences in the program, including advantages and disadvantages. We’ll talk about the eligibility criteria, testing procedures, deadlines, and more.”



Running Start students pay for books, transportation, and some fees, but do not pay full Clark College tuition. Fees are subject to change by the Washington State Legislature. Fee waivers and limited textbook assistance are available for those demonstrating financial need.

Calvert noted, “Successful Running Start students are generally self-motivated, emotionally mature, and looking for additional academic challenges. They also have excellent study and time-management skills. Some students are so motivated that they earn their associate degree from Clark at the same time that they earn their high school diploma.”

Clark College is located at 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver. Parking will be available in the college’s red lots on the east side of Fort Vancouver Way and in the purple lot on the west side of Fort Vancouver Way. Driving directions and parking maps are available at www.clark.edu/maps.

Individuals who need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event should contact Clark College’s Disability Support Services Office at (360) 992-2314 or (360) 991-0901 (VP), or visit Gaiser Hall Room 137 two weeks in advance of the events.

For more information on Running Start, visit the Clark College website at www.clark.edu/runningstart. For information about Running Start Information Nights, call (360) 992-2366.