The W partners with ECHO to increase college access for local students
Mississippi University for Women has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance educational opportunities for students with the East Columbus Homeschool Organization (ECHO).
Interim University President Scott Tollison and ECHO Board President Rachelle Slade signed the agreement Tuesday, Oct. 27, during a ceremony at The W.
“One of The W’s priorities is to build partnerships that create opportunities for students, particularly those right here at home. We appreciate ECHO’s commitment to its students, and we look forward to working together to help them get a head start on their college education,” said Tollison.
To be eligible for dual enrollment credit, students must be classified as juniors or higher, have a minimum overall high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and have taken the ACT or SAT at least once, earning a minimum composite ACT score of 16. Students who are not classified as juniors or higher may be admitted with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 in all high school courses and a minimum composite ACT score of 30 or the equivalent SAT score.
“This partnership between ECHO’s Family School and The W makes dual enrollment accessible for families right here within Columbus city limits who previously faced barriers because of finances, distance or both,” said Giovanna Smith, ECHO founder. “We’re extremely grateful to MUW for investing in our students and the vision. We’re even more excited about how this partnership could grow and really impact our city.”
Academic courses available to ECHO students include English composition, general biology, oral communication, U.S. history, geography, Spanish and college algebra. Courses will be offered online or on campus.
Dual enrollment courses will be offered in spring 2027.
To learn more about dual enrollment opportunities at The W, please visit https://www.muw.edu/admissions/dualenrollment.