1. Northwest Early College High School
Principal: Tracy Speaker-Gerstheimer
Dean of Students: Jessica Harrison
Counselor: Michelle Belli
Have panel members introduce themselves – name, grade, credits earned, major.

2. What is an early college high school?
Students earn two diplomas – their high school diploma and either an Associate of Art or Science (equivalent to 60 college hours)
There is no cost for students/parents

3. About Northwest Small school – currently 360 enrolled
55% female, 45% male
Students have an opportunity to take an additional 18 hours toward their Bachelor’s degree at UTEP during senior year
Funded by Canutillo ISD & EPCC
We follow a different school calendar that is closely aligned to EPCC
Students – What are the benefits of attending a small school?

4. Northwest Accomplishments
2018 Blue Ribbon School
Last year, 89% of our seniors earned their associate’s degree BEFORE graduating from high school – most as juniors! Projected for class of – 95%!
Our seniors received 3.1 million dollars in scholarship offers. The total amount received by the district was 6 million.
NW was recognized in US News & World Report as a top high school for helping low income students “beat the odds.”
We offer many different clubs/activities (high school experience)

5. What are the benefits of attending?
Challenge your child with rigorous, college level courses
Significant financial savings for parents and students
Save time
Get your child “hooked” on college
Small size = more attention

6. Who should attend? Looking for students with a focus on academics
Looking for students who are hard workers
Maturity – taking classes with college students
Student panel – please describe the ideal student for Northwest

7. What will my child’s first year be like?
Your child must attend the summer bridge program, scheduled for June We will not meet on Friday June 14 or 21.
During summer bridge, you will get to know your teachers, other students, have fun and also get prepared to take the TSI (Texas Success Initiative)
You and your child must attend an orientation day, scheduled for August 8 or 9.
We are on an A/B schedule (see handout)
Your child will take 8 classes

8. But what about…?
Is there transportation? (For those within Canutillo district, YES. For those outside of the district, you must provide)
Will the credits transfer?
Is there tutoring?
Does my child have to go to UTEP?
How does this all fit in?
How hard is it?
Is there a wait list if all the slots are taken?

9. How does my child apply?
Complete the application – available online under “school announcements” at
Applications are due Friday, January 19, by 4:00 PM
Students will be notified of acceptance end of February
Applications from students within Canutillo ISD are reviewed FIRST.

10. Contact Information
Principal: Tracy Speaker-Gerstheimer, ,
Dean of Students: Jessica Harrison, ,
Counselor: Michelle Belli, ,
Office Manager: Lilian Valles,