There are several ways students can earn college credit while in high school, such as taking an AP course, a dual credit course held on campus (for example, SPA 111/112 or ENG 101/102) or through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) CIT 149 class taught by Mr. Eltzroth. What about off campus options? Enter in the Crimson Scholars.

Crimsons Scholars are Manual students who are taking a dual credit class on the UofL campus and considered students of both institutions. These are juniors and seniors who want to get a taste of the college experience, but are still able to have the support and guidance of their high school team. This is different from Louisville Academy, which is where Manual students spend half the day at Manual and half the day at UofL. Crimson Scholars only take one college class, whereas Louisville Academy students take multiple. 

There will be an informational session for University of Louisville Dual Enrollment Programs on March 23 at 3 p.m. in the Manual auditorium. Those interested may attend and will be able to ask questions, as well as learn more about what steps they need to take in order to participate. 

Students and their families should consider a few things when thinking about becoming a Crimson Scholar, to better guide thoughts, decisions and ultimately in ensuring that this path is right for you.

The first consideration pertains to cost, as the cost per credit hour for Crimson Scholars will be significantly less than what a student would actually pay in college. This means that students will be charged $72 per credit hour, as opposed to being charged the regular $508 per credit hour.

 Also to be noted, juniors and seniors are able to get up to two college classes for free through the KHEAA Dual Credit Scholarship program. Students who have already used this scholarship or are taking more than two courses will still receive the benefits of a heavily discounted credit hour rate. Tuition must be paid for by the student and on time, or else a hold will be put on their account. 

Students will also have to omit at least two of their Manual classes in order to take a UofL course, one on White day and one on Red day. This is because colleges run on a set schedule every week (such as a certain class on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), as opposed to Manual’s alternating block schedule (having a White day on a Monday and then the next Monday is a Red day). Students must be flexible with what classes they will have to forego in order to take a UofL class. 

The list of approved UofL dual credit courses may be viewed here. These are the JCPS approved courses; however, students may be able to take a class outside of this approved list, depending on circumstances. It’s to be noted that this isn’t common nor easily granted.  

College is not as lenient as high school and deadlines for things such as schoolwork, add/dropping classes, tuition dues and other related items are firm. Do not expect others to organize, plan or consistently accommodate for you. This is a time of transition and becoming more self-sufficient and independent. Students who consider becoming a Crimson Scholar must understand that they are being trusted to leave campus, attend classes, maintain themselves and their grades, be organized and on top of their university email. 

That’s not to say that you can’t still go to your Manual teachers and counselors for help. They will always be here to help and support you, especially when you’re faced with uncertainties. You have a certain level of responsibility, but are still learning, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have. Take advantage of the support team you have now, before you go off to college for real. 

Dr. Newman and the counseling team have been working hard and making it a priority in order to expand the amount of dual credit opportunities available for students. Numerous benefits await, all you as a student have to do is be motivated, determined and confident in your amazing abilities.