DRRHS Receives Massachusetts Early College Designation in Partnership with Bridgewater State University

Partnership with BSU expands college access, reduces higher education costs, and creates new pathways for DRRHS students

NORTH DIGHTON, MA — The Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District is proud to announce that Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School has officially received Massachusetts Early College Designation through a partnership with Bridgewater State University, marking another major milestone in the district’s continued commitment to expanding innovative, future-focused opportunities for students.

The designation, awarded jointly by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, recognizes programs that provide students with structured access to authentic college coursework while still in high school.

Through the partnership, DRRHS students will have the opportunity to earn transferable college credits, experience the rigor and expectations of college-level learning, and explore future academic and career pathways, all while significantly reducing the cost and time associated with earning a college degree.
“This designation represents an important step forward in our ongoing commitment to shaping the future for our students,” said Superintendent Bill Runey. “Early College is about access, opportunity, and removing barriers. It creates real pathways for students to experience college-level expectations while still benefiting from the support systems of high school. We are incredibly proud to partner with Bridgewater State University to expand opportunities for DRRHS students and families. I also want to express my sincere appreciation to Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza, DRRHS Principal Dustin Demers, ELA Department Head Ellen LaSalle, and Coordinator of Dual Enrollment and Early College Rob Geddes from Bridgewater State University for their leadership, collaboration, and commitment throughout this process. This designation would not have been possible without their collective efforts and shared belief in creating more opportunities for students.”

Research across Massachusetts and nationally has demonstrated that Early College programs increase college readiness, improve college completion rates, and create stronger postsecondary outcomes, particularly for first-generation college students and students traditionally underrepresented in higher education.

“This designation is the result of nearly two years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared commitment to creating more opportunities for students,” said Assistant Superintendent Fred Souza. “Early College gives students the chance to experience real college coursework, build confidence, and begin seeing themselves in new ways academically and professionally. We are proud to partner with Bridgewater State University to create pathways that expand access while continuing to support students throughout the process.”
Students participating in the program will receive academic and non-academic supports designed to help them successfully navigate both high school and college experiences. The program also aligns closely with the district’s strategic plan, DRiving Toward 2030, by helping to empower students, ignite curiosity and learning, and shape future-ready graduates.

“Receiving Early College designation from DESE is an incredible milestone for DRRHS and a powerful reflection of our commitment to expanding rigorous, meaningful pathways for students. This designation will help empower our students to see themselves as college and career ready while still in high school. This is a proud moment for our students, families, and the entire DR community, and another example of our continued commitment to ensuring there is truly something for everyone at DRRHS.”

The Early College Designation further strengthens the district’s growing portfolio of advanced academic and career-connected programming, including Advanced Placement coursework, Chapter 74 Career & Technical Education pathways, innovation initiatives, and ongoing partnerships with higher education institutions and industry leaders.

Additional details regarding student eligibility, course offerings, and program implementation will be shared with students and families in the coming months.
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