Schools and Partners
As part of MoWest’s commitment to open access education, we value the opportunity to work alongside our homeschool students and partners. Early College Academy (ECA) aims to support students with the opportunity to earn both college and homeschool credit simultaneously. Alternatively, ECA provides a cost-effective, quality selection of courses to amplify current offerings, both on-campus and online. Still have questions? Request more information below.
What is Available Through MoWest's ECA?
Dual Credit
Dual Credit enables qualified high school students to take college-level courses in-person taught by a qualified high school instructor. Students simultaneously receive academic credit for the course from both the high school and MoWest. The Instructor of Record is a MoWest department-approved high school teacher who has a minimum of 18-graduate credit hours in the requested field.
Collaborative Dual Enrollment
Collaborate dual enrollment enables qualified high school students to take college-level courses in-person that are taught by an approved, trained high school instructor working in conjunction with a MoWest Faculty member. Students simultaneously receive academic credit for the course from both the high school and MoWest. The Instructor of Record is a MoWest faculty member while the high school faculty facilitates the course in-person.
Flex Online
Flex Online courses allow qualified high school students to take college-level courses offered 100% online, taught by a MoWest faculty member. A designated high school staff member is assigned as a Course Monitor to assist in student success measures. These courses are offered asynchronously, allowing for flexibility in scheduling and offering selection.
Traditional Postsecondary
Traditional post-secondary courses allow qualified students to enroll in sections developed for MoWest undergraduate students, either online or on the Missouri Western State University campus. These courses are offered to both ECA and undergraduate students.
FAQ
What options does our school have for dual credit/dual enrollment courses?
We are happy to review any and all courses you may want for your students. Whether in-person or online, our 75 courses can be offered in a number of formats to best fit your school. Our goal is to make ECA fit into your existing program as compared to making you work into ours. ECA aims to be a one-stop shop, having anything and everything your students may need, from courses to resources and support measures. Big or small, we tailor our work to best fit your needs.
Which of our high school instructors can teach ECA courses?
We are happy to offer dual credit courses for any high school instructor who meets the guidelines set by HLC and the state of Missouri. If they do not meet this, we are happy to discuss Collaborative Dual Enrollment for those instructors who still want to teach in-person.
How much responsibility do we take on as counselors for ECA courses?
ECA has set up a number of processes to reduce workload while providing ease of mind for counselors and students. Our office is happy to provide resources, handouts, presentations, and advising for parents and students that request Additionally, our in-semester checks and supports aim to make sure any of your students who need additional support are caught. For counselors, their primary role comes from reviewing and approving courses in our online portal (no papers to fill out and send back).
How do students apply and how many courses can my students take?
Applications are done through our online Slate portal. We have simplified our process to create less tracking and work on your end. Students can access that application here.
The number of courses a student can take depends on a number of factors. Typically, your districts will help determine proper guidelines and availability of courses based on schedule, academic standing, and policy. Ultimately, the amount of courses a student can take is up to you and your school. Students will be encouraged to check with both their counselor and their parent/guardian to determine the right fit for them.
I have students who need accommodations, how do we go about getting those in place?
Our Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) handles all 504s and new intakes for students who need it. Any questions on specifics regarding accommodations and accessibility needs can be directed to the ARC Office at 1-816-271-4330.
Will ECA be willing to talk with parents or help with registration?
Absolutely! We are happy to take onto any existing event or program to talk with parents and/or students. If you’d like to schedule something just focused on us, we are happy to present, advise, or assist with registration as you need.
Will I be notified if my students are struggling?
Yes, we will notify you automatically as interventions come in and during roster checks, attendance verification, and midterm grade checks. We also have set up Navigate 360, one of our student success software, and Canvas to allow for increased monitoring of your students throughout the semester.
How do textbooks/other materials work for my students? Who is responsible for lost/damaged materials?
Most ECA courses have online textbooks and materials or utilize the ECA library to lend textbooks for select courses. Students are responsible for the proper care and return of all borrowed materials, whether from the ECA library or from Barnes & Noble. Failure to return items in a timely and proper manner may result in a charge for replacement of materials.
Are there any scholarships that can help with dual credit?
Yes! The state of Missouri provides a Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment Scholarship that is accessed on eligibility rather than determined by award ranking. High school students who are eligible are highly encouraged to apply for the scholarship that covers tuition and fees for their dual credit or dual enrollment courses. More details on this scholarship can be found here: https://dhewd.mo.gov/ppc/grants-scholarships/dcde