Rock Hill, SC – Noah Goins, Jesse Matthews and Michelle Mabey, earned their Associate Degrees from York Technical College, two weeks prior to receiving their high school diploma.
Riverwalk Academy, founded in 2014, will hold its inaugural graduation on May 26, 2022. However, two weeks prior to the school’s inaugural graduation, three Riverwalk Academy students will graduate from York Technical College with their Associates Degrees. This incredible feat is part of Riverwalk Academy’s Immersive Dual Enrollment Program at York Technical College, which allows our students to get hands-on experience in the areas of study and career fields that interest them.
“Attending college courses while attending Riverwalk Academy was a great opportunity for me. I was able to experience what college life was like, and I am now better adjusted to the way that college works. I know what is expected by teachers, and I have experience with online courses. The courses were more difficult than high school classes, so I had to become more disciplined and thoughtful in my work. Perhaps one of the most useful parts of the program was the fact that I now have a degree before I’m an adult, which gives me a head start in life. Having the opportunity to attend York Tech to pursue my Associates, while being a student at Riverwalk Academywas a great experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity.” said Noah Goins, Riverwalk Academy Senior, Future Winthrop University Student
“Receiving my Associates Degree while still attending Riverwalk Academy means that I'm prepared to take on opportunities after I graduate. Having two years of college already behind me before graduation will make my future education and career journey much easier and less stressful. I'm very thankful for the partnership between Riverwalk Academy and York Technical College that allowed me to take advantage of this amazing program.” said Jesse Matthews, Riverwalk Academy Senior, Future Winthrop University Student
“Completing this program was anything but easy. It was a difficult journey, but one I knew I had to take. Finishing high school with an associates degree is one of the greatest accomplishments I have ever done. This gives me a head start on life and creates more opportunities for me in the future. I am so glad I was able to have this opportunity through Riverwalk Academy and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.” said Michelle Mabey, Riverwalk Academy Senior, Future Arizona State University Student
In 2019, under the leadership of Head of School, Dr. Robert Compton, the school began its partnership with York Technical College.
“I’m incredibly proud of these three students for accomplishing, and what really excites me is seeing how this immersive dual enrollment has opened up so many opportunities for our students. Over 85% of our graduating seniors have earned transferable college credits, and over 50% of them have earned over 24 hours of college credit. The team at York Technical College has been outstanding educational partners. Our shared vision of providing an immersive dual enrollment experience has resulted in an innovative program that has made a positive difference in the lives of our students.” said Dr. Compton.
York Technical College Associate Dean, John McGill, works in the community to develop sustainable educational partnerships that allow students to complete career and technical programs, obtain university degrees, and earn a place in the career of their choosing.
“Congratulations to Noah, Jesse, and Michelle! They did the work and accomplished something great. A big shout out to their families for supporting them in their higher ed endeavors and to the Riverwalk administration, faculty and staff for their work and vision, making the immersive dual enrollment program on YTC campus high school work and work well.” said John McGill, York Technical College Associate Dean of Educational Partnerships
The immersive dual enrollment experience our students have with York Technical College creates unbounded opportunities for Riverwalk students, and we are incredibly proud of these three seniors for their accomplishments.