CCA and APS Partner for College Success

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS THE PACESETTER PROGRAM?

The PACE Setter Program is a program which allows eligible juniors and seniors in Aurora Public Schools the opportunity to earn both college credit and high school credit at the same time.

WHO QUALIFIES FOR THE PACESETTER PROGRAM?

Students under the age of 21 who are enrolled as a junior or senior in Aurora Public Schools, who have not earned a diploma, and who have Accuplacer or ACT scores appropriate for the approved class or classes.

ARE STUDENTS EXPECTED TO PAY TUITION?

The PACE Setter Program will pay tuition and fees for college level courses; the number of courses will depend on the program in which you enroll, FAST TRACK or PSEO.

PACE Setter covers only the cost of approved college level courses.  Students will be responsible for the cost of books for each course. (Average cost $100/course) If a student chooses to take a developmental course, the student must pay for the course.

Students will be responsible for transportation to and from their college classes.

If a student voluntarily drops a course without the consent of the high school principal or the PACE Setter Coordinator, or if the student fails the course, the student or the student’s parent or guardian shall reimburse the district for the amount of tuition and fees paid by the district.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THE PACE SETTER PROGRAM?

• Students save money and time.
• Students earn tuition-free college credits.
• A student who attends PACE Setter full time for two years could be a college junior by high school graduation.
• Colorado state colleges and universities have agreed to accept college credits earned from PACE Setter.  This is called the statewide guaranteed transfer course list found in the application.
• Students have the opportunity to experience college-life.
• Students have the access to many resources on the college campus,  i.e. Career Library, Advising center, free Tutoring.
• Study is accelerated and students find it exhilarating to be in a classroom with students from a variety of backgrounds, age levels, and perspectives.
• There is a broad selection of classes available through PACE Setter.
• PACE Setter Counselors and Advisors are available to assist students.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES OF THE PACESETTER PROGRAM?

• Schedule coordination and transportation may be difficult for students taking courses at both the high school and college.
• Grades for Spring Semester may not be available in time for high school graduation.
• The pace of the class is much faster than in high school.  Courses that take a year to complete in high school must be completed in a semester.