The Clean Technologies & Sustainable Industries Early College High School is a New York State P-TECH (Pathways in Technology) school. The P-TECH model is a grade 9-14 education model which prepares high school students for success in future careers as well as more advanced education.  P-TECH schools present a problem-based, interdisciplinary learning style that promotes group work and hands-on education in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields.  Through this program, students earn both a high school diploma and an associate’s degree from Hudson Valley Community College. This program will enroll freshmen in a flexible program combining academic rigor and career focus with graduates earning a high school diploma and an accredited associate’s degree. Students will experience internships with P-TECH business and industry partners and, upon graduation, will be regarded as viable candidates for employment with these partnering agencies. 

How much does it cost to attend the P-TECH program?
The P-TECH program is at no cost to students and families.  Each home school district pays tuition for the ECHS program.

Is transportation provided?
Each home school district, at this time, provides transportation to and from the P-TECH program.  Students are responsible for their own transportation during years 13 and 14 of the program.

When will I receive my Associate’s Degree?
Students have the ability to graduate with an Associate’s Degree from HVCC during year 13, but up to the end of year 14.  Any student that does not achieve their Associate’s Degree will exit the program and be responsible for the remaining classes after year 14.

What type of student is a “good fit” for the program?
Students need to be self-motivated, willing to try something new, and looking for something different that the traditional school environment.  Students need to be willing to work in groups, collaborate with others, and be responsive to feedback from different sources.

Who can attend the program?
Students apply to the program in their 8th grade year to begin coursework as a 9th grade student.  A student needs to be enrolled in a school district in order to attend.

What are some of the advantages for a P-TECH student?
Students take college courses from HVCC college professors on a college campus, which gives them a step ahead of their peers in a traditional environment.  Students are learning time management and organizational skills at a college level.

Students engage with business and industry partners, participating in job shadows, and solving real world problems.