The State Board of Community Colleges approved the formation of two new cooperative innovative high schools, including the Stanly STEM Early College High School in Albemarle, which is a partnership with Stanly County Schools and Stanly Community College.

“We are excited to offer another remarkable opportunity to Stanly County students,” said Stanly County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff James. “The STEM focus will prepare our students for the current job market and future projected job growth, as STEM-related jobs are one of the largest growing sector in our region, state and nation.”

“I am extremely excited about the new Stanly Innovative STEM Early College,” said Stanly County Schools board member Glenda Gibson. “STEM related jobs, including careers in the medical field, are one of the fastest growing fields today. This new innovative program will provide numerous opportunities by way of expanding healthcare related courses allowing our high school students the ability to finish their college degree at Stanly Community College or at a four year university.”

The other new cooperative school is the Halifax Early College High School in Weldon.

The state board also approved agreements focusing on developing a “seamless transfer for students who begin their studies in music, theatre or visual arts at a North Carolina community college and want to complete a bachelor’s degree in fine arts at a private college or university in the state,” according to the board’s press release.

The board recommendation for the STEM school now goes before the General Assembly for final approval.