RWU EXT Launches its First Early College Program in Massachusetts
RWU Extension School launches first Early College program in Massachusetts, partnering with Dighton-Rehoboth to provide students with college-level math curriculum that enables them to earn credit before graduation.
Roger Williams University (RWU) Extension School is expanding its Early College programming with its first Massachusetts partnership, launching a college-level math course with the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District for the 2025–2026 school year.“This Early College partnership with Roger Williams University empowers our educators, ignites the minds of our students, and helps shape their futures with purpose and possibility,” said Frederick Souza, assistant superintendent for the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. “It reflects the vision outlined in our DRiving Toward 2030 strategic plan and gives students real-world, college-level learning experiences. Thanks to the collaboration of our teachers, this program removes barriers and opens doors, allowing students to earn credit, build confidence, and see themselves as capable, college-ready learners.”
RWU Math Professor Koray Ozer designed and prepared the math curriculum, which includes pre-calculus, for Dighton-Rehoboth educators to teach. The class will be open to both juniors and seniors. All students who earn a grade of B or higher in the course will receive both high school credit and four RWU college credits.
“This program is a powerful opportunity for our students to get a head start on their college journey while still in high school,” said Dustin Demers, principal of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. “We are grateful for the support of RWU and our educators, who are committed to helping students achieve their goals.”
RWU Extension School Dean Gena Bianco added, “Through our Early College programs and partnerships, RWU Extension School is breaking down barriers to higher education by bringing college-level learning opportunities directly to high school students and their communities. This collaboration exemplifies our mission to make rigorous, career-focused education accessible, empowering students to earn college credits, explore diverse academic and career pathways, and build brighter futures with the support of their local districts.”
Roger Williams University’s Extension School (RWU EXT) has maintained a long-standing commitment to expanding access to higher education across the region, particularly for students who have been historically underrepresented in college classrooms. RWU EXT has offered over 100 dual enrollment courses during the last six years to more than 500 students.
The RWU Extension School focuses on providing accessible, affordable, and transformative learning experiences. As a leader in Early College programming, RWU EXT offers multiple pathways for students to earn college credit while still in high school. These include:
- Early College coursework taught onsite by RWU faculty at Rhode Island high schools or by high school teachers using RWU-designed curriculum
- Opportunities for school districts to sponsor students taking courses on RWU’s campus or online
- Sponsored curriculum aligned with Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways
