SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Students at Discovery Polytech Early College High School are taking strides toward higher education through an innovative partnership with Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Man diagnosed with Crohn’s disease running across Massachusetts for children’s hospital The collaboration allows students to earn college credits while exploring STEM-focused academic pathways. STCC professor Anthony Rondinelli teaches students from Discovery Polytech Early College High School (Photo courtesy of Springfield Technical Community College) As part of the "wall-to-wall" early college program, students attend classes at STCC twice a week, riding a bus to the campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They take courses in specialized fields including: Business Cybersecurity Healthcare Optics and Photonics Mechanical Engineering Technology Technical Arts The program, which started in 2023, enables students to gain valuable academic experience, save on tuition, and get a head start on earning an associate degree or 60 credits toward a bachelor's degree--for free. Discovery is one of the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnerships (SEZP) schools, a collaboration between Springfield Public Schools, the state, and the Springfield Education Association. This partnership began in 2020 with students from Springfield High School of Commerce earning college credits at STCC. STCC instructor Sam Delore teaches Discovery students about laser technology (Photo courtesy of Springfield Technical Community College) “This program is truly transformative,” said Discovery Principal Declan O’Connor. “Our students are immersed in a STEM environment that aligns with their passions for gaming, coding, digital media, and other technical fields. They’re navigating real college experiences that prepare them for future academic and professional success.” The program includes courses taught at STCC facilities, such as the newly opened Richard E. Neal Center for Excellence in Cybersecurity at Union Station. STCC President John B. Cook emphasized the unique opportunities the program offers. “These students are not just taking classes—they’re exploring programs that can’t be found elsewhere in the region,” Cook said. “The partnership provides a head start and prepares them for the next steps in their academic journeys.” Senior student Izabelle Martinez, who has already earned 42 college credits, spoke about the program's impact, “It’s exciting to be on a college campus,” she said. “We’re gaining experiences and networking with people in fields we aspire to join.” Discovery student Izabella Martinez (Photo courtesy of Springfield Technical Community College) SEZP Chief of School Innovation Kelley Gangi explained that the program’s academic pathways align with the Pioneer Valley Labor Market Blueprint, focusing on high-growth, high-wage careers. “Programs like this ensure students are prepared for in-demand career paths,” Gangi said. “Whether they pursue degrees at STCC or other institutions, they’re building a strong foundation.” STCC Professor Anthony Rondinelli, who teaches computer basics, praised the students’ enthusiasm. “They want to learn and are very receptive. This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for them,” he said. While the program offers exciting opportunities, it also challenges students to manage college-level coursework. Michael Anderson, a Discovery student, acknowledged the discipline required. “You have to think like a college student,” he said. “It’s about staying focused and knowing the hard work will pay off.” This early college initiative supports STCC’s mission to provide accessible, affordable education and foster pathways to higher education, particularly for underrepresented communities. It’s also part of a statewide effort to enhance college readiness and close achievement gaps for students from diverse backgrounds. Discovery students are already seeing the rewards, gaining confidence, and setting their sights on ambitious academic goals. “We’re learning how to be independent and take responsibility for our education,” Martinez said. “This program is opening doors for our futures.” To learn more about the program and STCC's offerings, you can visit their website. Local News Headlines Springfield honors Native American’s with flag raising event New Parker Street traffic lane raises concerns in Springfield One local group walks from Springfield to Greenfield to raise money for the hungry Electricity across New England will be in high demand this Thursday WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.