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Running Start

RUNNING START 

OTHS offers a dual enrollment program, Running Start, with Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) for a maximum of 20 students per grade level.

Eligible students must meet all qualifying criteria:

  • Cumulative GPA of 3.7 and a B or higher in Honors Geometry
  • Attend OTHS during the second semester of their sophomore year
  • Selected during their sophomore year for enrollment in the program, their junior and senior year

If there are more than 20 students that apply, students will be ranked by weighted GPA with the top 20 students being selected. Students participating in this program can be required to return to OTHS when deemed appropriate. Participating students must understand they may encounter conflicts with athletics/extracurriculars and will not receive the same level of OTHS communication/resources as students that attend classes at OTHS. Running Start Students are able to earn an associate’s degree by attending and completing all required courses at SWIC. Graduation requirements for both institutions do vary and both must be met to earn a diploma from both institutions.

*The Running Start Permission and Release of Information Form is due in the OTHS Guidance Office during the spring semester. Qualifying students who have attended the required informational virtual session with SWIC will be provided this form.  

2025-26 SWIC Running Start Tuition:

  • $4,318 - Full year tuition
  • July 1st - Due date for 1st installment of 1/2 of the tuition balance ($2,519)
  • December 1st - Due date for the remaining tuition balance

 

OTHS Director of Curriculum and Special Projects / Point of Contact for the Running Start Program

Ethan Graham - grahame@oths.us - 618-632-3507 Ext 5249

OTHS Running Start School Counselor

Tracey Ritzel - ritzelt@oths.us - 618-632-3507 Ext 5238