Wave Staff Report
NORWALK — For two consecutive years, Cerritos College has earned recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Examples of Excelencia. The national recognition, awarded by Excelencia in Education, highlights innovative programs that use evidence-based practices to accelerate Latino student success in higher education. The college’s Early College Program was named a finalist in the associate-level category, among submissions from across the nation.
Early College allows high school students to earn up to two years of transferable college credit, develop valuable skills, and potentially earn an associate degree or college certificate by the time they graduate from high school. Offered at no cost, the program saves students thousands of dollars and provides a head start toward transfer and bachelor’s degrees.
Since its launch in 2021, Early College increased its reach from 72 students to nearly 1,400, 72% of whom are Latino. By aligning high school and college requirements, embedding bilingual and culturally responsive support, and eliminating financial barriers, the program significantly increased Latino success.
Its first cohort graduated last year, earning 86 degrees and certificates and achieving a 100% acceptance rate to four-year institutions, including prestigious Ivy League schools. With its success, the Early College Program quickly became a model for bridging the gap between high school and college, supporting long-term academic and economic mobility in underserved communities.
“We are honored to receive another Excelencia recognition as we strive to close equity gaps and expand opportunities for Latino students in our communities,” College President Jose Fierro said. “Our Early College model’s success is rooted in student-centered pathways, embedded supports, and robust partnerships between Cerritos College and our local high school districts.”
Cerritos College serves as a comprehensive community college for southeastern Los Angeles County. Communities within the college’s district include Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, La Mirada, Norwalk, and portions of Bell Gardens, Lakewood, Long Beach, Santa Fe Springs and South Gate.
Cerritos College offers nearly 300 degree and certificate programs in nine divisions. Annually, more than 5,000 students successfully complete their course of studies. Enrollment currently averages 21,000 students.
