CPS Early College students were recognized at an end-of-year celebration event on Wednesday, May 22. The event also recognized graduating students who were awarded the BHCC-City of Chelsea scholarship. 

CHELSEA, Mass. – On Wednesday, May 22, at Chelsea High School, Early College students gathered for Chelsea Public Schools’ (CPS) Early College Celebration. The event recognized this year’s recipients of the Bunker Hill Community College-City of Chelsea Scholarship in a special ceremony in front of family, friends, school staff, BHCC staff and local dignitaries.  

The event brought together all aspects of the district’s Early College program, which is one of the largest in the State. Early College is a unique opportunity to improve students’ college and career prospects by taking and completing more rigorous coursework while in high school. By participating in the program, students earn free college credits, grow their confidence as college students and receive specialized advising and support.

A critical part of the program is the BHCC-City of Chelsea Scholarship. Since 2018, under then City Manager Thomas G. Ambrosino, the City of Chelsea has partnered with BHCC on a scholarship to provide free Associates Degrees to CPS graduates. The City has continued its contributions to this scholarship under new City Manager Fidel Maltez. This investment has proven to significantly increase college completion.

Students that join early college, reside in Chelsea, and complete nine college credits are eligible for the scholarship. This scholarship allows CPS graduates to attend BHCC and covers their unmet financial need to earn a Certificate or Associate’s Degree with the City of Chelsea funding. 

In the Class of 2024, 89 students were eligible for this scholarship. The total cost of these scholarships that the City of Chelsea has allocated for is $245,500. At the celebration event, these students were individually recognized by CPS Superintendent Dr. Almi G. Abeyta and Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez.  

The Bunker Hill Scholarship changes lives and makes post-secondary education a reality for Chelsea students. Thank you to the City of Chelsea for investing in students’ lives.

The Early College Celebration also recognized all students in the program for their accomplishments, dedication and perseverance in their BHCC courses. Sixteen students were honored for completing 12 or more credits this school year. One particular student finished the year by earning 35 credits via BHCC courses.