Cedar Vale Schools

Cedar Vale High School

Dual Enrollment Handbook – 2025–2026

Overview

Dual enrollment lets CVHS students take college classes (often tuition-free or reduced cost) while in high school. Each 3-hour college class counts as 0.5 high school credits per semester and appears on both your high school and permanent college transcript. These are real college courses with heavier workloads, so grades matter for future college admission and financial aid.

For questions or to set up a plan, contact Mr. Wachter or call 620-758-2791.

Steps to Dual Enroll

1. Apply to Cowley College

   • Pick up a dual enrollment packet in the Counselor’s Office or online at Cowley HS Partners.

   • Complete Cowley’s online application.

2. Get Approval

   • Meet with the counselor and principal to approve courses (required for reimbursement).

3. Register for Classes

   • Cowley will help register you. Be sure you understand the class expectations before starting.

Eligibility

Cowley College Requirements

• Sophomore–Senior (or gifted 9th grader)

• GPA 2.75+

• Meet ACT/ACCUPLACER placement: Reading 18+, Math 21+, English 20+

• Completed English III with “C” or higher and GPA 3.0+ for Comp I

• Submit signed FastTrack permission/enrollment forms

CVHS Requirements

• Good attendance and few discipline referrals

• Meet Cowley placement requirements

• Submit applications by end of May (or with admin approval)

• Replace dropped classes within 1 week or receive an “F”

• Parents/students pay all costs not covered by SB 155

• Transportation is student’s responsibility (except for Vo-Tech buses)

Enrollment & Credit

• Turn in the Dual Enrollment Request Form 2 months before the term starts.

• Decide if you want college credit only, high school credit only, or both when enrolling.

• Grades from college will be recorded on your high school transcript and calculated into GPA.

Financial Aid (CVHS Reimbursement)

• CVHS reimburses up to $165 for the first 3-hour course, and $80 for a second course (if funds available).

• Requirements for reimbursement:

  • Earn a C or better

  • Provide transcript (unofficial ok)

  • Show proof of payment

  • Books/supplies are your responsibility

Weighted Grades

College courses may receive weighted GPA credit if:

• They are in a core subject (English, Math, Science, Social Studies)

• Comparable in rigor to an AP course or 300-level class

• Approved by counselor/administration

Dropping or Failing a Class

• Students must repay the district for any tuition/fees not refunded by the college (unless excused for medical/family emergency).

• Failing to replace a dropped course results in an “F” on transcript.

Course Limits

Maximum of 10 total dual enrollment courses during high school.

• Start in 9th grade → 2 per year (max 4 in 12th)

• Start in 10th grade → 2 (10th), 4 (11th), 4 (12th)

• Start in 11th grade → max 6 per year, 10 total

• Start in 12th grade → max 6

Placement & Testing

• Placement tests required for English, Reading, and Math unless ACT scores or prior coursework qualify you.

• Must complete required developmental courses with “C” or better before advancing.

• Retest available once for $5, appeal possible to Student Affairs Committee.