Passaic Today

High school students from Paterson and Passaic are attending classes at Montclair State University on Saturdays to earn college credits in Writing and Interpersonal Communication. This initiative, supported by the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation and Paterson Public Schools, aims to provide students, many from underrepresented and low-income families, with opportunities for higher education.

The One Square Mile Early College Program is part of the "One Square Mile" initiative. It reflects Montclair's mission to create pathways to higher education for students in underserved communities. At Eastside High School, funding supports a community school offering English classes for adults and creative arts programs for teens. Other nonprofits addressing homelessness, substance use, food insecurity, and youth expression through the arts have also benefited.

This fall, selected juniors and seniors from Paterson and Passaic were introduced to the college experience through this program. Highlights include earning 3-7 transferable college credits in English or Interpersonal Communication, tutoring support, and access to campus resources.

Bryan Murdock, associate vice president for Community Partnerships at Montclair State University, stated: “The ‘One Square Mile’ initiative fosters transformation from within, healing communities while creating spaces of authentic belonging.”

On December 14th, about 80 family members and friends gathered to celebrate the students' achievements in completing courses like Writing 105 or Interpersonal Communication during their first semester.

Dr. Melissa Baralt ’01,’03 MS shared her journey as a first-generation Latina in STEM with the students. Albert P. Antomattei ’24 MBA encouraged them by saying: “This celebration is just one step on your journey."

Blanca Gonzalez reflected on her experience: “Earning college credits while still in high school was incredible."

In addition to regular classes during the year, a Summer Bridge Career Exploration Workshop offered hands-on workshops and field trips such as visiting Broadway performances or CNBC Studios.

Christine Lemesianou emphasized that completing these programs is about more than earning credits: “It’s about building the mindset and habits for lifelong success."

Montclair offers various ways for high school students to earn college credits including online courses through its Early College Scholars Program or Dual Enrollment Programs which allow fulfilling both high school requirements at reduced tuition rates.

Other initiatives like Red Hawks Rising Teacher Academy offer pathways into teaching careers with up-to-30 credit opportunities over five semesters without cost involved.

Further information regarding these opportunities can be found at montclair.edu/high-school.