News

CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts (June 11, 2026) – Chelmsford Public Schools is proud to announce that Chelmsford High School has earned the Early College Designation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, effective fall 2026.

“This will provide our students with the opportunity to earn free college credits while still in high school, reducing the financial burden of higher education and giving them a head start on their college careers,” said Stephanie Quinn, K-12 History and Social Sciences Department Coordinator at Chelmsford Public Schools.

Through a partnership with Middlesex Community College, Chelmsford High School will offer four Early College pathways: liberal arts, education, health science and criminal justice. Students accepted into a pathway will complete a minimum of 12 college credits within their chosen field of study.

“Each pathway is designed to connect student interests with real-world postsecondary opportunities,” said Katie Simes, PreK-12 Health, Physical Education and Family & Consumer Sciences Department Coordinator at CPS. “Whether students are pursuing careers in criminal justice, preparing to enter the field of education, exploring opportunities in health science or building a strong foundation through the liberal arts, Early College helps make college more accessible and attainable.”

The Early College program provides a structured, interest-aligned academic pathway that builds the skills and confidence students need for postsecondary success.

It complements but is separate from Chelmsford High School’s existing Innovation Pathways programs (business, information technology, life science and manufacturing technologies) and the extensive Concurrent Enrollment offerings (formerly referred to as Dual Enrollment).

Together, these programs reflect the district’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities and preparing every student for life after graduation.

Quinn explained that the Early College Designation signals to families, educators and the broader community that Chelmsford High School is committed to high expectations and college access for all students.

“Designation is the culmination of many years of dedicated work by dozens of individuals in the district,” she said. “We are able to offer a truly robust program because of our highly qualified educators with advanced degrees, whose commitment to student success has created a supportive, opportunity-rich experience for the students of CHS.”

Details about application requirements and the acceptance process will be released in the coming weeks. Students and families should watch for emails this summer containing program details and eligibility requirements, informational webinar and in-person session dates, and a timeline for the application process.

About Chelmsford Public Schools

The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential. This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students. For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.