Starting in the 2015-2016 school year, Montgomery College (MC) will be holding classes at RHS for juniors and seniors: Introduction to Human Speech in the fall and Foundations of Education in the spring. Students can take one or both courses and can earn three college credits for each class.

The Human Speech course in the fall will focus on communication theory and developing communication skills for personal and professional relationships. The spring course will focus on looking at an overview of the historical, legal, philosophical, social, financial and practical aspects of American education.

The cost for each course is $347 and it is the same on or off campus. However, financial aid is available for students who qualify.

“Taking classes here at Rockville will afford students the opportunity to experience the rigors of college work,” college/career information coordinator Janet Harris said. “Taking the classes here will also save you time and money. a�� You don’t have to drive from Rockville to the MC campuses – they come to us. That, too, is a plus, especially when students have to provide their transportation to the MC campuses. This is a win-win situation for everyone.”

The semester-long courses will be offered at RHS Tuesdays and Thursdays after school from 2:30-3:50 p.m., and will be taught by college professors. The required GPA for students who wish to take these classes is 2.75 for juniors and 3.0 for seniors. Students must also have a minimum SAT score of 550 for math and English or a minimum ACT score of 24 to be eligible.

Senior Anastasia Kaldis is dually enrolled at RHS and Montgomery College, meaning she takes classes at both venues. “I feel that [taking college courses] has prepared me for a full time schedule in the fall,” Kaldis said.