Santiago Charter students describe early college credits as program expands

Principal Ashley Pedrosa presented Santiago Charter Middle School’s dual‑enrollment program to the Orange Unified School District board on Jan. 22, and several students described how earning college credits in middle school is shaping college and career planning.

Pedrosa said the program — produced in partnership with the California Department of Education, Orange County Department of Education and Santiago Canyon College — will result in well over 700 transferable credits by June 2026. Student speakers described personal benefits including reduced college costs, clarity about future majors, and accelerated pathways; several said the program made them more confident and purposeful in setting career goals.

Trustees thanked the students for their presentations and described the model as a replicable pathway that has drawn attention from state and federal representatives. The board recognized Santiago as an inaugural presenter for the meeting’s pledge and commended the school’s partnerships and staff.

The presentation was informational; the board offered congratulations and encouraged continued collaboration across feeder patterns.