Birmingham City Schools and Lawson State Community College leadership

Birmingham City Schools and Lawson State Community today unveiled details of an expansion of the BCS Early College program with a new hub at Wenonah High School for students living in the western area of the Birmingham metropolitan area.

Applications are now open for BCS Early College—Wenonah, an initiative that will give students opportunities to earn associates degrees and certifications while completing a rigorous high school curriculum at Wenonah. The program is open to all students in Birmingham City Schools and surrounding communities. It officially begins in the 2025-26 academic year.

BCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Sullivan said the district’s expansion of its Early College initiative aligns with the Birmingham Board of Education’s Strategic Plan for an enhanced emphasis on preparing students for college and career.

Dr. Mark Sullivan“This collaboration with Lawson State and BCS Early College-Wenonah is a natural fit,” Dr. Sullivan said. “The proximity of the two campuses gives our students access to excellent educators and learning opportunities in a close setting.”

Leaders at Lawson State Community College said they welcome the new initiative and look forward to preparing even more students for exciting careers and additional learning.

“Lawson State is a gateway to success for students looking to work in healthcare, technology and for those who will continue to a four-year institution, said Dr. Cynthia Anthony, president of Lawson State. “We are confident Birmingham and Alabama will have a stronger workforce and more business owners and skilled craftsmen as a result of this initiative.”

More coverage at WBRC Fox 6, WIAT CBS 42, and The Birmingham Times