John Muir High School Seniors Make History by Earning High School Diplomas and College Associate Degrees Through Dual Enrollment

Seven seniors from Pasadena’s John Muir High School Early College Magnet have achieved an impressive feat by earning both high school diplomas and associate degrees through the Pasadena Unified School District’s Dual Enrollment program, which allows students to earn up to two years of transferable college credit while in high school. 

The dual-enrollment program at John Muir is operated through PCC Northwest, the satellite campus established by the college in 2016. Students at John Muir can begin taking college courses as early as the ninth grade. To earn the associate degree, students must take additional coursework beyond the typical school day. 

The seven were honored last Tuesday, April 23, at a celebratory luncheon. 

“Congratulations on these remarkable achievements!” Dr. Blanco said. “The students embody the spirit and growth mindset of Muir Mustangs and PUSD graduates, and demonstrate what’s possible for our students through partnerships.”

The John Muir High graduates and their associate degrees are:

• Asha Bailey – Administration of Justice
• Lauren Gray – Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Social Justice Studies; Gender Ethnic Multicultural Studies
• Mphatso Johnson – Administration of Justice
• Zackery Parkins – Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Jae’da Reed – Business; Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Jae’la Reed – Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Londyn Sewell – Social and Behavioral Sciences; Speech Communications; Humanities

José A. Gómez, PCC’s interim superintendent/president, highlighted the benefits of dual-enrollment programs for young learners and their families.

“We know that students who take part in dual enrollment are more likely to graduate from high school, enroll in and finish college, and have better success academically,” he said. “These wonderful students are the living proof of the importance and the success of dual enrollment.”

The students acknowledged the extra work required to accelerate their education.

“There have been so many countless, sleepless nights, doing stacks of work,” Lauren Gray said, as she thanked her parents and counselors who helped her along the way. 

But she also reflected on the breadth of her experience. “PCC Northwest in general has given me so many great opportunities,” she said. “All the different classes, the interdisciplinary education I got to experience was so amazing. I’m so excited to use the skills that I have learned.”

Having completed their two-year degrees before leaving high school, the students have been accepted to 36 colleges and universities around the country, including Howard University, USC, Columbia University, the University of North Carolina, and eight University of California campuses, including UCLA and UC Berkeley.

Beyond their academic achievements, the students have actively participated in extracurricular activities, showcasing their multifaceted talents and interests. Muir senior Londyn Sewell manages a photography business, while Jae’da and Jae’la Reed, who are identical twins, balance their commitments to Muir’s water polo team with their academic pursuits.

Assemblymember Chris Holden, who authored legislation on Dual Enrollment, said it was one of his proudest moments as an Assemblyman.

“Here we are, just a few years after passing the dual enrollment bill and already we are living to see our children benefit from it and gleam towards success,” Holden said. “When I put forward this legislation, I dreamt of this moment and what it would mean for the students of our state. I say to these graduates: Dream big! Reach high! Go far!” 

Supported by comprehensive resources and mentorship provided by PUSD, including tutoring, college preparation workshops, and dedicated Early College counselors, students in PUSD’s Dual Enrolment program save time and thousands of dollars in tuition fees by completing college courses during high school. 

Dr. Blanco said the program is a springboard to success, and these graduates are now poised to embark on their journeys with confidence.

“Now, they’re ready for the world,” Dr. Blanco said.