A discussion expected Thursday by the Haverhill School Committee on the early college program at Haverhill High School and on its college and scholarship application processes for students.
On Thursday’s meeting agenda, committee member Paul A. Magliocchetti is asking for details on topics, including the availability of school committee scholarships and how students may apply through the high school’s guidance department. Two weeks ago, members Magliocchetti and Shaun Toohey said they were prevented from participating in a similar discussion because of an opinion issued by the State Ethics Commission. Magliocchetti said, however, he interprets a statement by Superintendent James F. Scully as removing the restriction. He explained during WHAV’s Open Mike Show Monday.
“If he’s stating that class rank doesn’t matter, as far as college acceptance or for scholarships, then I have no conflict and I should be able to deal with the issue.”
The school committeeman explained the situation that has pitted students and parents against one another.
“The Early College Parents wanted to let everyone know how hard their students work in that program, what those classes are like and that they are legitimate college classes. And, I think the AP parents are trying to say, well if they are that way, then let’s compare the syllabuses, and let’s try to iron this out and make sure we’re getting this correctly.”
He questions whether there is a duplicate cost. “Why would you offer the same exact same courses that you already have at the high school because taxpayers are paying for this?”
Magliochetti will ask how students can apply for the early college program and when testing for the program would take place.
Scully is scheduled to report to the committee financial and general updates for the school district.
The Haverhill school committee meeta at 7 p.m., Thursday, in city council chambers at Haverhill City Hall.