Fall River Students Celebrate Early College Program That’s Helping Them Get Ahead

There was a special kind of energy in the room at B.M.C. Durfee High School this week — a mix of excitement, pride, and hope. Students, school leaders, and community officials gathered to celebrate something that’s changing lives across the city: the success of Fall River’s Early College program.

For students like Carlos Marcano, it’s been nothing short of life-changing.

“I’m graduating high school, but I already have college credits under my belt,” Carlos said with a proud smile. “It’s helped me so much, not just with schoolwork, but figuring out what I want to do.”

Carlos, now a senior, started taking college courses at Bristol Community College during his junior year. Now, he’s continuing his journey through the Early College partnership with Bridgewater State University. He’s already been accepted to BSU with a full scholarship — and plans to study marketing.

More Than Just Extra Credits

The Early College initiative, now in its third year at Fall River Public Schools, is designed to give high school students a head start on college — all at no cost to them or their families. But it’s not just about getting credits. The program gives students a chance to experience the college environment while still having the support of their high school community.

It’s especially meaningful for students who are the first in their families to attend college.

“We’re not just sending students to take classes. We’re walking with them every step of the way,” said Early College coordinator Sarah Gonsalves. “They’re learning how to manage deadlines, advocate for themselves, and really see that college is within reach.”

Support That Makes a Difference

At Durfee, Early College students meet regularly in seminar sessions that help them with everything from interpreting a college syllabus to managing their time and applying for scholarships. The support is built in — and it’s intentional.

Those seminars are run in partnership with OneGoal, a national nonprofit that helps students from underrepresented backgrounds succeed in college.

“I didn’t know what a syllabus was at first,” admitted junior Aria Santos. “Now, I use it to organize my week. I feel more prepared than I ever thought I would be.”

Why It Matters to Fall River

Fall River has faced its share of challenges — from economic hurdles to educational gaps — but programs like Early College are flipping the script.

“It’s about equity,” said Superintendent Maria Pontes. “This program gives every student a shot at college success, regardless of their background or what neighborhood they live in.”

And the numbers are backing it up. Since launching, the program has helped over 200 students earn real college credits — many of whom are now on track to finish college early or avoid student debt entirely.

More Growth on the Horizon

With so much success, Fall River Public Schools is now looking to expand the Early College program even further. Right now, about 120 students are enrolled, but district leaders are hoping to raise that number to 200 — if funding allows.

“There’s a waitlist,” said School Committee member Kevin Aguiar. “That shows you just how much interest there is. Families see the value — and we want to give this opportunity to as many students as possible.”

A Moment Worth Celebrating

At the celebration event, students shared stories, posed for photos, and even had a chance to speak with college representatives. It wasn’t just about looking back at how far they’ve come — it was about looking ahead.

“I never thought I’d be a college student while still in high school,” said junior Anthony Rivera. “Now I know I can do this.”

It’s clear: Fall River’s Early College program isn’t just helping students earn college credits — it’s helping them believe in themselves.

And that’s something worth celebrating.