Early OCC Program

At Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School (SAS), we believe in empowering students to reach beyond high school and take charge of their future. The Early OCC Program, offered in partnership with Onondaga Community College (OCC), gives high-achieving juniors and seniors the chance to experience college life — while earning real college credits before they graduate.

Through this program, eligible students—those aged 16 and older—can take official OCC courses on campus during the regular school day. All tuition, textbooks, lab materials, and technology fees are completely covered by SAS through a tuition waiver. This means families pay nothing out of pocket, yet students gain a meaningful head start toward a college degree.

Participating in the Early OCC Program allows students to:

Get a firsthand taste of college-level academics.
Build confidence in navigating a college environment.
Save significant time and money toward future college costs.
Graduate high school already on the path to earning a degree.

This partnership between SAS and OCC is a cornerstone of our mission: to prepare every student for college, career, and citizenship in a changing world.

The Early OCC Program is designed for motivated and academically prepared SAS students who want to challenge themselves and expand their educational opportunities.

To qualify, students must:

Be enrolled as a junior or senior at Syracuse Academy of Science.
Be at least 16 years old by the start of the program.
Meet academic readiness criteria, including satisfactory grades, attendance, and behavior.
Receive approval from their SAS school counselor and administrative team.

This program is best suited for students who demonstrate maturity, independence, and the ability to manage college-level expectations alongside their high school responsibilities.

The Early OCC Program allows SAS students to enroll in college courses offered directly at Onondaga Community College. Courses are held during the regular school day, ensuring students remain connected to their high school schedule while attending classes at the college campus.

Course Selection

Students can choose from a range of general education and introductory courses, such as:

English Composition
College Algebra
Psychology
Public Speaking
Computer Science
Sociology
Business Principles
Course availability may vary each semester.

These classes are taught by OCC professors, giving SAS students exposure to college-level instruction, standards, and pacing.

Academic Credit

Each completed course earns official college credit, recorded on an OCC transcript. These credits count toward degree requirements at OCC and are transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide. Students who continue at OCC after high school may enter already ahead in their degree plan.

The advantages of this program go far beyond earning credits. Students gain experiences that shape their academic identity, build maturity, and prepare them for the next phase of their education.

1. Real College Experience

Students attend classes alongside college peers, interact with professors, and learn the expectations of higher education in a supportive environment. This early exposure helps reduce anxiety about transitioning to college after graduation.

2. Cost Savings

All tuition, textbooks, and required materials are covered by SAS — a potential savings of thousands of dollars. Families can redirect those savings toward future educational expenses or opportunities.

3. Academic Readiness and Confidence

By succeeding in college courses while in high school, students build self-confidence, strengthen their study habits, and gain the assurance that they can thrive in a college setting.

4. Career Exploration

Students can explore academic fields and career interests early on, helping them make more informed choices about college majors or technical paths after graduation.

5. College and Career Counseling

SAS guidance counselors work closely with OCC advisors to ensure every student receives individualized support — from course selection to credit transfer guidance — ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

6. Free Lunch on Campus

SAS provides one free lunch per day for students during their scheduled class days at OCC, so they can focus on their studies without additional costs.

7. Resume and Scholarship Advantage

Participation in a college-level dual enrollment program distinguishes students on college applications and scholarship submissions, signaling strong readiness and initiative.

To make the most of this opportunity, participants must:

Maintain strong attendance at both SAS and OCC.
Communicate regularly with both school and college advisors.
Manage time effectively between coursework, transportation, and responsibilities.
Uphold SAS behavioral expectations while representing the school on a college campus.
Meet all deadlines and maintain academic integrity.

The Early OCC Program is a unique and transformative experience that embodies the Syracuse Academy of Science mission — to inspire lifelong learning, personal growth, and college success.

By the time participants graduate, they have not only completed high school requirements but also earned real college credits, saving both time and money on the path ahead.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward your future, talk to your guidance counselor today and discover how the Early OCC Program can open doors to your college and career goals.