Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is welcoming its largest Spring Ahead cohort to date, with 75 high school students from 12 partner schools enrolled in the early college program. 
Spring Ahead allows eligible Maine high school seniors to earn tuition-free college credits during their final semester of high school while gaining firsthand experience in a college classroom. Students must meet both high school and college requirements and receive approval from their guidance counselors.
This year’s Spring Ahead students represent the following high schools: Bonny Eagle High School, the Learning Center at Bonny Eagle, Cape Elizabeth High School, Deering High School, Freeport High School, Greely High School, Kennebunk High School, Mt. Ararat High School, Scarborough High School, South Portland High School, Windham High School, and Yarmouth High School.
The spring 2026 cohort marks several milestones for the program, including the largest class in its history and significant growth at Deering High School, which alone accounts for more than 40 participating students. Windham High School joined the Spring Ahead program for the first time this year.
“I’m really excited for this incoming class of Spring Ahead students,” Pat Haviland, Spring Ahead success coach in the Early College Office, said. “This is an incredible opportunity for them to earn college credits and gain exposure to the college classroom. These students have earned this opportunity with the support of their high schools. I’m looking forward to the start of the semester next week and to working with all of them throughout the term.”
Kristen Miller, president of SMCC said the program reflects the College’s commitment to increasing access and supporting students as they transition to higher education.
“Early college programs like Spring Ahead help students build confidence, explore academic pathways and begin their college journey with meaningful support,” Miller said. “By earning college credit while still in high school, students are better prepared for success and more empowered to pursue their educational goals.”
Spring Ahead students attend classes on SMCC’s South Portland Campus and receive ongoing academic and personal support through the College’s Early College Office throughout the semester.
SMCC offers several early college options for Maine high school students, including dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment and Spring Ahead, all designed to help students get a head start on college while completing their high school education.
For more information about the Spring Ahead program or other high school opportunities at SMCC, contact Chris Ike in the Early College Office at 207-741-5861 or cike@mainecc.edu, or Pat Haviland at phaviland@mainecc.edu. Additional details are available at www.smccme.edu/academics/high-school-programs/.