Early College-Wenonah Launches at Lawson

BCS Early College-Wenonah Coming to Lawson State 
 
Local high school students looking to get a head start on their college studies have a new option, thanks to a new partnership between Birmingham City Schools (BCS) and Lawson State Community College leaders (pictured above). 
 
BCS Early College-Wenonah launches in early 2025, giving high school students the opportunity to work toward a college degree while still studying at Wenonah High School. The high school campus is Lawson’s next-door neighbor, but qualified students from any Birmingham City School location can apply for admission. 

"At Lawson State Community College, we thrive on expanding access to education and workforce readiness for students at every stage of life, including ambitious and talented high school students," said Lawson State President Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony.  
 
"Collaborating with Birmingham City Schools and Wenonah High School accomplishes both goals," she said. "An early start toward a college certificate or degree is the ultimate  investment in a student's future. This partnership allows students to move faster toward their goals—whether that means landing a good job or pursuing a four-year degree after attending Lawson State."

A win for everyone 
 
Early college programs help families maximize two of their most limited resources—time and money. Economic and employment conditions continue to drive interest among parents, their students, high school counselors, and even employers looking to train specialized talent.

Initial areas of study for the BCS-Wenonah program include auto repair, supply chain management, welding, computer information systems and pre-nursing---all areas that, according to research, are opening careers across Alabama and the nation.

"This really just brings together Lawson's core values and the school district's strategic plan to provide students with an exceptional, affordable education," said Dorian Waluyn, Lawson State's director of strategic initiatives and external affairs. He also emphasized that the early college program academic and career pathways were intentionally chosen.

"We are strengthening the pipeline of well-prepared individuals who will be ready for business and industry, ready to earn competitive wages, or ready to take the next step in their college journey,” Mr. Waluyn said. “Everybody wins.” 

During the formal joint announcement at Lawson State, Birmingham City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Sullivan described the opportunity as transformative. 

"Our students will be able to earn a living wage coming out of high school with an associate’s degree," he said. "With BCS-Wenonah, they’re ready to go to the workforce and they’re ready to go to a four-year college – this is a real game changer for families."