College Now is a recent program through Johnson County Community College (JCCC) that allows students taking certain classes to obtain credit for that class later in college.

JCCC started this program 30 years ago, and it continues to grow in popularity. There are several classes at Blue Valley that offer the dual credit option. Many of these include Advanced Placement Spanish, AP French, AP English Literature, AP U.S. History, AP Chemistry and Honors Pre-Calculus.

“It’s a great option for all students who are interested in doing their best,” math teacher Matt Shipley said. “There are a lot of good things to get out of taking advantage of this opportunity.”

Some of these advantages include cost, time and an easier class, Shipley said.

“The biggest advantage is the cost,” said junior Catie Kerr, who is taking College Now in Honors Pre-Calculus and Honors Spanish 4. “It was less than half the cost of taking it in college, and in college you’re really broke, so I think it’s smart to just save money where you can.”

Shipley said he agrees that one of the biggest advantages is the cost, but also said “the classes are easier too since you’re being taught by a high school teacher instead of a college professor.”

Shipley said if the colleges the students want to attend don’t accept that credit, they shouldn’t enroll in College Now and waste their money. However, Shipley said he does encourage students to use this to their advantage.

“I definitely recommend College Now,” Shipley said. “I think it’s a great way to get a jumpstart on your hours and save money.”