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Give Apply Now

Early College

Central Piedmont Early College is a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) high school on Central Campus that enables students to earn college credit while getting their high school diploma.

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Early College
High School Diploma or Equivalent, Associate Degree
Outcome
Four Years
Duration
In Person
Learning Format
Central Campus, Harper Campus, Levine Campus, Merancas Campus
Location

Benefits

Cost savings

Save significantly by earning college credits for free during high school that you can apply to an associate or bachelor’s degree.

Industry certifications

Students can pursue industry certifications, as well as hands-on coursework in HVAC, electrical, welding, carpentry and more.

Small classes

Tackle rigorous academics, including Honors and Advanced Placement courses, in small class sizes that promote tailored support.

Career support

From access to the Career Services team, who can help you identify and achieve your career goals, to built-in apprenticeships and internships, the Early College program is designed to prepare you for life after graduation.

Two Early College students at a table in a classroom

About the Early College program

Early College is one of CMS’s Cooperative Innovative High Schools and focuses on first generation college preparatory students, underrepresented students, and students who would benefit from accelerated learning opportunities.

Students may begin Early College in ninth grade. As a graduate of Central Piedmont’s Early College, you will earn a high school diploma and up to two years of transferable college credit or an associate degree, tuition-free. Books and course fees will also be covered by the program.

Transportation is provided in accordance with CMS transportation zone guidelines.

About the Early College students

The students who succeed in Early College are typically academically driven, independently motivated and goal oriented. Most students have strong time management skills, are resourceful, and care deeply about their education.

Students listening attentively during a class
How to apply

How to apply

Step 1: Apply in CMS.

Complete the CMS School Choice Lottery Process, following all deadlines and requirements as outlined.

Step 2: Apply to Central Piedmont.

If you are selected through the CMS lottery to attend an Early College, you will receive an email from Central Piedmont inviting you to complete the application to Central Piedmont Early College.

Step 3: Monitor your email for next steps.

You will receive an email from Central Piedmont containing your student ID number and next steps to finalize enrollment.

Contact

Central Piedmont works in partnership with CMS to offer the Early College to students. 

If you have questions about the lottery process, transportation or eligibility, we encourage you to reach out directly to CMS.

 For information about the Early College curriculum, locations or the Central Piedmont Early College application, please reference the following contact information.

 

Early College at Central Campus

980-343-0098

erikm.turner@cms.k12.nc.us

Early College at Harper Campus

980-343-0012

harperhigh@cms.k12.nc.us

Early College at Levine Campus

980-343-9437

levinehigh@cms.k12.nc.us

Early College at Merancas Campus

980-343-0035

mmchs@cms.k12.nc.us