Running Start

Running Start is a partnership between NKSD and Olympic College that allows eligible juniors and seniors to take college courses on campus or online while earning both high school and college credit. Students have access to the same resources as regular college students across a wide range of subjects.

Running Start and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are both programs designed to provide high school students with college-level coursework and opportunities to earn college credits. However, there are some key differences between the two:

1. Program structure:

• Running Start is a dual-enrollment program available in some states, like Washington, that allows high school students to take college courses at local community colleges or universities while still enrolled in high school. Students earn both high school and college credits simultaneously.
• Advanced Placement (AP) courses are college-level courses offered within the high school setting. They follow a standardized curriculum developed by the College Board, and students take AP exams at the end of the course to potentially earn college credit based on their scores.

2. Accessibility:

• Running Start is typically available to high school juniors and seniors, with eligibility requirements varying by state and institution.
• AP courses are generally available to high school students of various grade levels, depending on the school's offerings and prerequisites.

3. Course offerings:

• Running Start students have access to a wider range of courses offered by the participating college or university, which may include technical or vocational courses in addition to traditional academic courses.
• AP courses are more limited in scope, focusing on specific subjects like math, science, history, and literature. The College Board offers over 30 AP courses, but not all high schools provide every course.

4. Credits and transferring:

• Running Start credits are typically awarded based on course completion and grade, making it easier for students to earn college credits as long as they meet the minimum grade requirement. However, transferring these credits to other colleges or universities may depend on individual institutional policies.
• AP credits are awarded based on a student's performance on the AP exam, with scores ranging from 1 to 5. Many colleges and universities accept scores of 3 or higher for credit, but specific policies vary by institution.

5. Costs:

• Running Start programs may be funded by the state, with tuition costs potentially waived or reduced for eligible students. However, students may still need to cover fees, books, and transportation costs.
• AP courses are generally offered within the high school setting, but there is a fee associated with each AP exam. Exam fees may be reduced or waived for students with financial need.

Ultimately, the choice between Running Start and AP courses depends on factors such as a student's goals, interests, and access to the programs. Both options can provide valuable academic experiences and help students get a head start on their college education.

North Kitsap School District students who participate in the Running Start program primarily attend classes at Olympic College. These high school students take courses on the Olympic College campus, where they study alongside other college students. Some Running Start courses may also be offered online, subject to the availability of courses and resources provided by Olympic College.

For accurate information about Running Start class locations and available courses for North Kitsap School District students, it is important to consult with your local high school and Olympic College.

Transportation is not provided for Running Start classes. Students attending Olympic College through the Running Start program are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the college campus. It is important for students and their families to plan accordingly and ensure reliable transportation for the duration of the Running Start program.

Students can take up to 15 tuition-free credits per quarter depending on their high school enrollment level, with the potential to complete up to two years of college coursework before graduating. Students should work with their high school counselor and a college advisor to plan a schedule that meets both graduation requirements and college credit goals.

Tuition is free, but students are responsible for other costs such as class fees, books, transportation, parking, and fees for any courses that are not college-level, such as courses numbered below 100.

Running Start students have a high level of responsibility when attending college classes. They are treated as college students and are held accountable for their attendance, participation, and behavior in these classes, alongside adult students.

Running Start students must follow the policies and procedures of both their high school and the college, including attendance, academic, and behavioral expectations. Students should familiarize themselves with the requirements of both institutions.

Running Start is not available during the summer quarter.