Mary M. Knight Running Start

What is Running Start?

Running Start is a program that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to take college courses at Washington State community colleges while simultaneously earning both high school and college credits. Through partnerships with Grays Harbor Community College, South Puget Sound Community College, and Olympic Community College, Mary M. Knight students have the opportunity to jumpstart their college education while completing their high school requirements.

Program Benefits

  • Earn high school and college credits simultaneously

  • Experience college-level coursework while in high school

  • Save on college tuition costs as Running Start courses are tuition-free

  • Access to college resources and facilities

  • Opportunity to explore career interests through college coursework

Student Readiness and Academic Success

While specific GPA requirements vary by college, students considering Running Start should:

  • Demonstrate strong academic performance in high school courses

  • Show consistent attendance and work completion

  • Possess good time management and organizational skills

  • Be prepared for increased academic rigor and independence

  • Have reliable transportation to and from college classes

Current high school performance is a strong indicator of potential success in college-level courses. Students should carefully evaluate their readiness for college coursework with their families and counselor.

Program Costs and Responsibilities

  • Tuition is covered for eligible college courses

  • Students/families are responsible for:

    • College fees and textbooks

    • Transportation to and from college

    • Required technology (computers/laptops)

    • Any fees associated with dropped courses

    • Course materials and supplies

Enrollment Process

  1. Meet with our Academic Counselor to discuss Running Start interest

  2. Choose a partner college and review their specific requirements

  3. Complete college placement testing as required by your chosen college

  4. Submit college application and required documentation

  5. Meet with Academic Counselor to plan courses and complete enrollment verification

  6. Register for college classes

  7. Purchase required materials and prepare for college courses

Important Considerations

  • Maximum combined enrollment between high school and college cannot exceed 1.4 FTE

  • Students must meet with our Academic Counselor each quarter to verify enrollment

  • Students are only permitted on Mary M. Knight campus during scheduled high school classes

  • College calendars differ from the high school calendar (ex: semester start and end dates, quarter enrollment deadlines)

  • Students must follow college policies regarding attendance and academic performance

  • Each college has specific placement testing requirements and deadlines

  • If college course credit is not earned due to course failure, students will need to plan for credit recovery for graduation requirements.

  • Students are responsible for communicating with their college professors and college advisors regarding coursework, grades, deadlines, and registration.

Partner Colleges

Please visit each college's Running Start webpage for specific requirements, deadlines, and processes:

Contact Information

Alex Fisher
Academic Counselor/Running Start Liaison
Email: afisher@mmk.wednet.edu

Note: Requirements, deadlines, and processes may vary by college. Please refer to your chosen college's Running Start webpage for specific details about their program.