Youngstown Rayen Early College High School celebrates 20 years of offering early degrees
Youngstown City School District is celebrating the twentieth anniversary of providing early college educational opportunities at Youngstown Rayen Early College High School.
YREC is a five-star school on the most recent state report card that offers students a one-of-a-kind high school experience, according to principal Monica Jones.
Scholars can earn a high school diploma while also earning a tuition-free associate’s degree at Youngstown State University.
Fifty-nine percent of the 2024 graduating class, 32 out of 54 seniors, received their associate’s degrees.
“YREC is one of under ten early college initiatives in the state,” said Jones. “While others may be a sole program, ours is an entire school dedicated to providing college preparedness and a pathway to higher education. It has been an honor to be a part of one of the hidden gems in the Mahoning Valley, an educational institution whose mission is dedicated to student success in a supportive environment. We are thrilled to have been here for 20 years and look forward to serving future generations of learners.”
YREC is a living legacy in the historical Judge William Rayen building.
It continues to serve scholars from all backgrounds, just as Judge Rayen intended when he left behind money after his death to establish the first public educational institution of higher academic level in Youngstown.
In addition, an integral part of the original portion of the building’s history was that P. Ross Berry, a prominent Black bricklayer in Youngstown at the time, completed the brickwork.“It is truly an honor to have such a distinguished high school as part of Youngstown City Schools,” said superintendent Jeremy Batchelor. “YREC provides a transformative opportunity for scholars. Its alums have become successful entrepreneurs, professors, and working for organizations such as Nike and The Raymond John Wean Foundation. The school is a testament to the Youngstown Excellence Experience, where the district offers pathways to future careers and opportunities.”
There’s an anniversary celebration in conjunction with an open house on Friday at YREC.
The anniversary convocation is scheduled for 10 -11 a.m. outside YREC at 20 W. Wood St. in Youngstown.