Running Start is a partnership between local community colleges and public high schools. The program provides high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to take college-level courses tuition-free.

Running Start students, full or part-time, can apply credits earned toward both high school graduation and future college degrees at the same time. Students may attend any community colleges' Running Start program, but must apply for admission into Running Start. Performance on entrance exams, grade point average (GPA) and other factors may be considered in the admissions process.

Steps to Enroll

• Learn about Running Start - Go to the college website you are interested in and find their Running Start information page. You may also attend an information session at the college or meet with your MHS counselor to learn more about the program. An information session was held for students at MHS. Here are the slides that were presented at that informational session: MHS Running Start presentation 
• Complete placement - Get a copy of your Smarter Balanced Assessment Scores, PSAT scores or take a placement test.
• Apply for admission to the community college you want to attend.
• Check your email - You will receive an acceptance email from the college with your student ID and the next steps to take.
• Review and complete the MHS Running Start Student/Parent Contract 
• Review the Monroe High School Running Start Course Equivalencies
• Complete an Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF). You can get a copy from the Counseling Center or you can print an online one. You will need to do this every quarter you want to take Running Start classes.
• Make an appointment with your high school counselor to turn in your Student/Parent Contract and review your Enrollment Verification Form. 
• Turn your completed RSEVF to the Running Start office at the community college a few weeks prior to the registration opening date. It can take several weeks for them to process your paperwork before you can register for classes each quarter.
• Register for your college classes once their registration window opens.

Local Community College Partnerships

Everett Community College
Cascadia Community College
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Edmonds Community College
Shoreline Community College

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are classes located?

Most Running Start courses are located on the college campuses; however, some of the community colleges that we partner with offer courses at various locations throughout our community or online options.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation is not provided by the Monroe School District to Running Start courses.

How many college credits may students take?

Students may take up to 15 tuition-free credits per quarter, depending on their enrollment level at the high school. Up to 2 years of college may be completed while students are still in high school. It is possible to earn an Associate's Degree while still in high school.

Is it completely free?

While there is no cost for tuition, students must pay for class fees, books, transportation, parking and any courses taken that are not college level courses (courses numbered below 100).

Other things to know

Students are enrolled in regular college classes with adult students and are responsible for their own actions, participation and attendance. If enrolled in Running Start and high school classes, all policies and procedures regarding attendance and grades for Monroe School District courses are applicable.