Youngstown early college program marks 20th-anniversary milestone

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — Youngstown Rayen Early College High School is celebrating its 20th-anniversary milestone.

The school offers students the chance to earn a tuition-free associate’s degree at Youngstown State University while also obtaining their high school diploma.

“YREC is one of under ten early college initiatives in the state,” said Monica Jones, YREC principal. “While others may be a sole program, ours is an entire school dedicated to providing college preparedness and a pathway to higher education. It has been an honor to be a part of one of the hidden gems in the Mahoning Valley, an educational institution whose mission is dedicated to student success in a supportive environment. We are thrilled to have been here for 20 years and look forward to serving future generations of learners.”

In the 2024 graduating class, 32 out of 54 seniors received an associate’s degree, according to a release from the school district.

YREC will hold an anniversary celebration in conjunction with its open house from 10-11 a.m. on Friday outside the school.

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