Anthony Alston, Director of External Affairs
Metro Early College High School stands out in the competitive landscape of Ohio's high school graduates pursuing higher education. Not only does it offer a unique STEM-focused curriculum, but it also achieves exceptional student outcomes. Despite being one of the smallest schools in the region, Metro continues to outperform larger high schools in preparing students for success at one of Ohio's premier institutions.
According to a recent report from Columbus Business First, Metro sent 59 graduates from its 2024 class to The Ohio State University, representing an impressive 45% enrollment rate. This places Metro among the highest contributors to OSU's freshman class relative to its size, far surpassing much larger schools with hundreds of graduates.
For comparison, schools like Dublin Jerome High School and Olentangy Liberty High School, which sent 118 and 107 students to OSU, respectively, report enrollment rates in the 20-25% range. William Mason High School, the top feeder school in sheer numbers, sent 139 students to OSU, with 15% of its graduates enrolling. Metro's ability to send nearly half of its graduates to a top-tier university like OSU highlights the strength of its academic programs and the success of its early college model.
Metro's mission is to empower students through a challenging STEM curriculum that includes real-world applications and collaborations with higher education and business partners. This ensures that graduates are ready for college and equipped to thrive once they get there. The school's early college opportunities, combined with a personalized learning approach, give students the skills and confidence to succeed at institutions like Ohio State. It's no wonder Niche.com has ranked Metro as the number one College Prep Public High School in Ohio.
Principal Benjamin McKibben credits this success to the school's unique environment. "We focus on creating opportunities for students to experience college-level coursework early and often. We challenge them academically while supporting them with the necessary resources to succeed. Our partnership with The Ohio State University allows students to transition seamlessly from high school to college, which is reflected in our enrollment numbers."
Metro's continued success in sending students to OSU is a testament to the power of focused, individualized education. While the school may not have the size or resources of larger districts, it makes up for it with a strong commitment to academic excellence and strategic partnerships.
As the educational landscape continues to evolve, Metro remains a model for how small schools can make a big impact. By providing students with the tools they need to excel in higher education, Metro is preparing them for college and setting them up for lifelong success.
For more information on Metro Early College High School's programs and partnerships, visit www.themetroschool.org or contact Anthony Alston, Director of External Affairs, at alston@themetroschool.org.