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Accelerated Path

The Accelerated Path at East Middle School is designed for motivated 8th graders ready to challenge themselves and get a jump start on high school. This path offers an enriching blend of rigorous academics and diverse electives.  The Accelerated Path empowers students to flourish by pushing their limits, exploring new interests, and mastering high-level content. With the support of dedicated staff and a tailored curriculum, students on this path gain a strong academic foundation and valuable credits, setting them up for outstanding success as they enter high school ahead of the curve.

The Accelerated Path provides two options:

Option 1: Students on the Accelerated Path may choose to graduate early (within three or three and a half years) if they have completed the required number of credits for graduation.

Option 2: Pursue an Associate's Degree in General Studies through**: 

  • Gateway to College: A dual enrollment program for which students attend St. Louis Community College beginning their junior or senior year either full- or half-time. A student who enters Gateway to College at the start of their junior year and attends full-time for junior and senior year can graduate from high school with a completed associate's degree or two years of credit toward their bachelor's degree.
  • Emerson STEM Academy: A dual enrollment program designed for students interested in pursuing a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and math)-related career. Students may begin Emerson STEM Academy at the start of their junior year. They may attend full-time for their junior or senior year to complete their associate's degree or two years of college credit toward a bachelor's degree.
  • Complete the Core 42: The Core 42 is a general education course of study to ensure all graduates of colleges and universities in Missouri leave higher education with a common set of college-level skills and knowledge. The Core 42 is comprised of courses in the areas of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Written Communications, Oral Communications, Natural Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Humanities and Fine Arts.
  • Complete a Career Certification through Dual Enrollment with St. Louis Community College

**All opportunities listed under Option 2 will be eligible for full payment by the district.

Students on the Accelerated Path take the following courses in 8th grade:

  • English I*
  • Algebra I*
  • Science 8
  • Social Studies 8
  • PE/Health
  • Elective Class(es)*

*Students can earn high school credit