Thank you for your interest and engagement during this time of transition for the Early Entrance Program (EEP). Please be assured that all currently enrolled students are supported through the completion of their academic programs (an approach known as teaching out), providing continuity of advising and access to resources.
With increased requirements for minors’ participation in a university setting, California policy has changed to favor minor-aged students learning through their home middle and high schools. Cal State LA, inspired by EEP, is seeking to embrace this new model that builds a stronger partnership with K-12 schools through dual enrollment. Details of our emerging dual enrollment programs will be shared in the coming months.
As part of this transition, the Division of Academic Affairs is in the process of submitting a proposal to the appropriate Academic Senate committee for review regarding phasing out the EEP. The Academic Senate is Cal State LA’s shared governance body on academic policy with voices from faculty, students, staff, and administration.
I have heard the concerns of many students, families, and alumni who have found a home and a path through EEP. Your voices and experiences have shaped the program’s legacy. As a program that has stood for more than 40 years, we honor EEP and all those who have been part of its success. At the same time, in a changing world, we must ensure that children are being provided the best experience possible for their academic, emotional, and physical development.
I also want to emphasize that no faculty or staff jobs are at risk as a result of this proposal. EEP does not have a faculty that is exclusive to this program; it shares a faculty with the broader university. Additionally, staff will remain part of the Honors College, will be essential to seeing through students completing their academic programs, and will continue to be critical to the mission of Cal State LA.
We are grateful to the students, families, faculty, and staff who have made EEP a transformative experience. EEP students’ contributions continue to inspire generations of learners at Cal State LA, and I am proud of the transformation achieved together.
Kathy J. Cooke, PhD
Director, Honors College