Students Soar to New Heights in Early College High School Program

The Early College High School Program at Oklahoma Panhandle State currently has 24 students enrolled; 20 students from Guymon High and 4 from Goodwell High.

This program allows exceptionally prepared rising high school sophomore students to begin college coursework on a path to finishing an associate’s degree while they complete their high school diploma.

Seven out of the 24 students will be graduating in May with not only their High School diplomas, but also Associate Degrees at Panhandle State.

The Academic Resource Center is a helping hand to these students during their time in the ECHS program if they should have any academic needs.

Sarah Green, Dean of the Academic Resource Center commented, “The ECHS students continually outperform their peers and are exceptional scholars. It is an exciting opportunity for area students and we are hopeful to see it continue to grow.”

Current ECHS student Hunter Harris from Guymon High School placed at the State Leadership Conference for Panhandle State Phi Beta Lamba Collegiate Business Club. Harris placed first in Help Desk and second place in Computer Concepts. Harris is set to graduate with his Bachelor’s degree in the Spring of 2024.

“ECHS has opened a world of opportunities for me. Being involved with others in a college environment has pushed me as a student. I am ahead of the curve thanks to the ECHS Program,” Harris continued, “Competing at the State Conference with PBL allowed me to display my talents with my fellow students.”

One of the first graduates out of the Early College High School Program, Karson Neville, graduated in 2021 from Hooker High School. He will graduate this spring from Panhandle State with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biological Science with honors.

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be when I started the ECHS program. I just wanted to push myself academically. I never knew that one decision would open so many doors and lead me to where I am today,” Neville continued, “I’m proof that if you take advantage of the opportunities presented to you and believe in yourself, anything is possible. I’m very thankful for my family and friends and everyone else who has helped me, and above all, I thank God for everything. He has guided me every step of the way throughout my journey.”

After graduating, Karson plans to apply for Dental School. He is currently working as a Dental Assistant at Dr. Phipps office in Guymon.

From a parent’s viewpoint, Heather Neville stated, “I am beyond thankful for OPSU, the ECHS program, and the encouragement Karson has received along the way. All an answer to our prayer. The goals Karson has achieved in such a short amount of time is more than I could of imagined.”

Dr. Julie Dinger, Provost, stated, “I am so proud of the dedication and hard work these students put into their study. They are top scholars who excel in their college and high school courses. These students are among the best and brightest in our state and I look forward to good things to come as this program continues to build pathways to college degrees now and in the future for our university and our region.”