Colorado Early Colleges (CEC) is a network of tuition-free public charter schools, providing Colorado families with accessible, flexible, and individualized learning and a direct path to debt-free college degrees and other industry credentials.
Since the doors of our first high school campus opened in 2007 in Colorado Springs, Colorado Early Colleges and our accredited college partners have been committed to creating a community of lifetime learners and building a culture throughout our network of schools that fosters academic, career, and personal success for every student, and do so at zero tuition-cost to them and their families.
CEC now has campuses across Colorado, including local high school campuses in Aurora, Castle Rock, and Douglas County North. CEC Online Campus is also our online learning option, open to families anywhere in Colorado and at zero cost.
Our schools partner with local community colleges and universities, offering students the chance to take college-level courses on and off campus. The goal is to create a pathway that allows students to graduate high school with a competitive edge and be ready to enter the workforce upon graduation. Through CEC, students can earn college degrees, industry certifications, and 60 or more college course credits while earning their high school diploma.
Why choose Colorado Early Colleges?
Flexible Learning Options: CEC offers accessible, flexible, and individualized learning, recognizing that each student has unique academic needs and personal goals. Students work with their advisors on an academic plan that is right for them and aligns with their career aspirations. This flexibility enables students to work at their own pace, challenging themselves with advanced coursework when ready while also receiving the support they need to succeed.
Career Pathways and Technical Education: CEC offers career pathways and technical education in a variety of
industries. These programs incorporate a curriculum that aligns with industry standards that lead to an industry-recognized credential so that students may be prepared to enter the workforce after high school. Career Pathways in health science, engineering, construction, IT, aviation, multimedia, and more are available at CEC (may vary by campus location).
Free Tutoring: CEC offers free tutoring at its campuses to ensure students have the support they need to succeed academically. This support is very valuable for students balancing high school and college work, as it ensures they never have to face academic struggles alone and can receive the help they need to excel.
Money Saved: Earning college credits while in high school can save students a considerable amount of money upon graduation. Students graduate from high school with a head start on their college education, potentially reducing the time spent in college and the associated tuition costs. For many students, this is a crucial financial benefit that takes the pressure off students and families when it comes to higher education.
Since 2007, CEC alumni have entered the workforce with valuable skills and experience gained during their time here and have gone on to have exceptional careers.
“I think the most impactful thing CEC offered me was the flexibility. I knew I didn’t want to follow the traditional route from the start. I didn’t want to go to college and spend a bunch of money. CEC offers a head start on college and other career options. I was always interested in construction but knew nothing about it. Attending trade school at such an early age got my foot in the door and helped me get my first job in construction as a deck builder. At this point, I was 16, working full-time for a construction company, and attending night classes at Red Rocks Community College. No other school offers that kind of freedom and flexibility, and so that was by far the most impactful thing CEC was able to offer me.” – Mason R., CEC Castle Rock graduate
CEC is open to all students, regardless of background or skill level. Our schools are now enrolling for the upcoming school year. To learn more about CEC and all the different programs offered, browse our schools from around the network!
