As students and families place greater emphasis on the value, affordability, and career outcomes of a college education, St. Francis College and Prospect Schools, a Brooklyn-based tuition-free K-12 charter school network, are launching a new partnership designed to make the transition from high school to higher education more accessible for New York students.

Beginning this fall, Prospect Schools High School will relocate to Downtown Brooklyn, creating a shared educational environment with St. Francis College where students will have greater access to college resources, accelerated degree opportunities, and academic experiences that help prepare them for success after graduation.

The partnership will provide eligible Prospect students with access to St. Francis College's Degree in 3 program, allowing them to earn a bachelor's degree in three years while reducing the cost of college by offsetting $45K in tuition. It also creates continuing education opportunities for Prospect faculty and staff, and establishes a foundation for future academic collaboration between the two institutions.

"St. Francis College has spent more than 165 years opening doors for students through an education rooted in opportunity, service, and community," said Tim Cecere, President of St. Francis College. "This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to a high-quality, affordable education and creating meaningful pathways that help students thrive in college, in their careers, and in their communities."

At a time when schools and colleges are exploring new ways to prepare students for higher education and the workforce, the partnership offers a model for expanding educational opportunity while strengthening connections between K-12 and higher education in Brooklyn.

"Our mission has always been to ensure every student has the confidence and opportunities to succeed in college and beyond," said Tresha Ward, Chief Executive Officer of Prospect Schools. "Partnering with St. Francis College provides our students with the resources to achieve their goals in their everyday learning environment."

Throughout the coming year, St. Francis College and Prospect Schools will introduce additional initiatives that expand educational opportunities for students and families, including academic programming, campus events, and collaborative experiences designed to support student success from high school through college.

  
About St. Francis College
Founded in 1859, St. Francis College is Brooklyn's first private institution of higher education. Guided by its Franciscan values, the College prepares students for lives of purpose through rigorous academics, leadership development, and service.

About Prospect Schools
Prospect Schools is a public charter school network serving K-12 Brooklyn students through a college-preparatory education that empowers every student to thrive in college, career, and life.