Running Start

Students may enroll simultaneously in high school and college classes, or solely in college classes. 

Renton High School students who participate in Running Start are responsible to keep themselves informed about the RHS school calendar and activities.

Once you begin your college courses, you will be considered a "regular" college student. You will be in classes with adults of all ages. Students are expected to meet class deadlines, be prepared for class, ask questions and conduct themselves as responsible adults.

You will receive both high school and college credit after you successfully complete your classes. 

Is Running Start Right for You?
 

Consider the Pros:

• If you find traditional high school doesn't fit your career goals, you may find what you need at a community college.
• You can earn up to two years of tuition-free college credit, getting a head start on your career goal.
• You may have the opportunity to take elective courses that are not offered at RHS.Academically prepared students have an opportunity to take advanced level courses.

Consider the Cons:

• The social network is very different, and you will be in class with adults of all ages from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. You may miss out on the high school experience (This is the only time you will ever be in high school.)
• The college operates on a quarter system, while most high schools operate on semesters. Holidays and vacation periods are frequently different. Students are expected to attend classes at the college even though their high schools may not be in session. Careful planning must occur to avoid conflicts with family and school activities.
• Books and supplies are the responsibility of the student. Transportation is also the responsibility of the student.
• Students are starting a permanent college transcript when they take any college classes.

How to Get Started:
 

Step 1

Identify which Career and Technical College you will be enrolling at. This decision may be determined by your knowledge of yourself as a learner and your goals.

For example:
Which college campus is most convenient to get to if you plan to attend in person?
Which programs are offered at the campus? Do they align with your post-secondary goals?

See below for a list of some of the participating colleges attended by RHS.

Step 2

Attend an information session and begin the Running Start admissions process outlined by the college using the links below. The participating colleges on this page are the closest to RHS and the most popular colleges our students attend for Running Start! If you don't see your college on the list, search online using [College Name] + Running Start to find their steps and information to get started.

Participating Colleges

Bellevue College 

Highline College  

Green River College 

Renton Technical College 

South Seattle College 

Step 3

Make an appointment with your high school counselor to discuss how you want Running Start to work with your educational and career goals. Please bring the Running Start Verification Form (EVF) pre-filled with your personal information and ctcLinkID#. Your counselor will then work with you to decide which classes to take. The form will need to be completed each quarter. 

Counselors:

Ms. Pike, last names A-Da: bpike@rentonschools.us
Ms. Guillet, last names De-K: bguillet@rentonschools.us
Mr. White, last names L-Q: twhite@rentonschools.us
Ms. Ibrahim, last names R-Z: nibrahim@rentonschools.us