Tennessee High School

Preparing students for post-graduate success

Please see below for statements from students currently participating in the program: 

“The Tusculum Associate’s degree program has provided me with an opportunity to get 2 years of college before graduating high school. This program is not for someone who is unorganized and needs constant reminders to get their work done. You are treated as a college student. Therefore, you must adapt quickly to the different environment. The workload is more rigorous and intense, and you are graded more strictly than at Tennessee High school. However, if you decide to pursue this it is extremely rewarding. The teachers at Tusculum and the staff at Tennessee High are there for you and if you have any questions or concerns, they will help you through it.”-Paxton Odum, 11th grade  

“The Tusculum Associate’s Degree program is a great opportunity to get ahead and experience real college classes. The program demands hard work and diligence since many of the classes are only seven weeks long, which makes them very fast-paced. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure if this program was right for me. Honestly, I felt a bit overwhelmed by all of the work, but it’s all about finding a balance. If you manage your time correctly and keep up with the assignments, it’s no different than a high school class. I would strongly recommend this program to anyone looking for a challenge and to anyone willing to put in the time and effort.”-Madeline Simcox, 11th grade 

Additional Requirements for Participating: 

1. Students must be a junior for the 2021-2022 school year.
2. Students must have a 3.0 GPA.
3. Students will need to take the ACT prior to taking certain courses. Students will need to earn an ACT score of 18 in English, 19 in Reading, and 19 in Math. **Placement assessment may be available.
4. Students must complete the admissions applications for either institution. The student’s school counselor and the institution will guide them through this process.

**Students who meet the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation’s criteria could be eligible to receive either the Dual Enrollment Grant or Middle College Scholarship to assist with program costs. Parents will be responsible for the remaining cost of tuition in addition to textbook fees. Other financial aid may be available, but this is not guaranteed. Eligible students who are interested but need financial assistance should contact their school counselor.**  

Students will choose to receive their Associate's Degree from Northeast or Tusculum.  If interested in pursuing either path, complete the form found HERE.
 
1. The "Bear Track" is offered through Northeast State Community College. Courses will mostly be taught by Northeast State professors on the TN High School Campus, but students may have to travel to the Blountville campus or take online courses (course format is subject to change due to COVID). For more information: Northeast State Bear Track.

See estimated costs below. Textbook costs are not included; this could be about $250-$750 per semester depending on the courses taken.  

2. The "Pioneer Pathway" is offered through Tusculum University. Courses will be solely online taught by Tusculum professors. Some Tusculum courses may require live instruction meetings, but most will allow students to work at their own pace (course format is subjected to change due to COVID). For more information: Tusculum Pioneer Pathways.

See estimated costs below. Textbook costs are not included; this will vary from semester to semester based on courses taken.

If interested in either path, please fill out this form:  
https://forms.gle/cTaDoe9YwYomkpXQ9 

Please see your school counselor if you have questions or need more information.