What are we?

The Vail Early College is an extension of the Vail School District’s high school choice philosophy and is founded on the belief that some upperclass students are ready for rigorous college coursework while still in high school.
An opportunity for students to spend their senior year taking courses on the Pima Community College East Campus and get a jump start on college with guided support.
Focused on being the right program for the right students.

What are we here to do?

Help students to succeed in the transition from high school to college.
Help students go on to complete their college degrees/certifications.
Provide students with the supports and skills necessary to successfully meet their academic goals.

What does the Vail Early College look like?

Senior year of high school is spent full time at Pima's East Campus.
The VEC school day is Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Students are required to be on Pima East campus during this time.
VEC students follow Pima’s academic calendar, not Vail’s. This means school starts in August with no fall break and a one week spring break.
Full time Vail School District staff focused on providing daily supports to students and parents.
VEC students can still participate in their Vail high school’s sports, clubs, activities, dances, etc. and also have full access to Pima resources, activities and events.
VEC students receive their diploma from their current Vail high school and walk with their class at graduation.
Pima courses taken by VEC students will be specifically selected to meet each student’s individual educational goal.
Students take American Government for high school credit on the Pima campus, taught by VEC staff.
Students are provided with specific college success supports throughout the school year in our College Success course.
Students complete their Senior Exit Project through the VEC.

What are the benefits of the Vail Early College?

Pima tuition and related student fees are covered for classes taken in the program.
Two full time Vail School District staff to help with each student's personalized academic journey.
Specific training and activities to ensure that students benefit from the support services offered by Pima.
Students can earn up to 30 transferrable college credits prior to graduating from high school.
After graduation from high school, colleges/universities will view VEC students as first year college students. This means that they will be eligible for freshman/first year scholarships and financial aid packages!

Have more questions? See our FAQ page for answers to those frequently asked questions about the Vail Early College!