Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is inviting local homeschool students and their families to explore a different approach to high school and college through CVCC’s Homeschool Early College cohort, a program designed to help students begin earning college credit while completing their secondary education.
As part of the program’s upcoming recruitment efforts, CVCC will host a Homeschool Early College Open House and Shadow Day Event on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., on the college’s main campus in Lynchburg. The event will give prospective students an opportunity to experience the Early College environment firsthand while parents and families learn more about the program, expectations, opportunities, and next steps.
During the preview, students will shadow Early College classes and experience the cohort environment alongside current students. Parents will participate in an information session focused on the program and the opportunities available to homeschool families.
The event will also include a campus tour, an Early College overview, a free Lunch & Learn, and time for families to ask questions and connect directly with the CVCC team.
“Homeschool students come to us with a wide range of educational experiences, goals, and interests, and Early College gives them an opportunity to take the next step in a supportive college environment,” said Dr. Mark Tinsley, associate vice president of Arts & Sciences at CVCC. “Students are not simply earning college credits. They are developing confidence, independence, and the skills they will need to successfully transition into college and whatever comes next.”
The Homeschool Early College cohort allows eligible students to experience college as part of a community of peers while working toward their academic goals. The model provides students with both the independence of college-level learning and a built-in network of support as they navigate the transition to higher education.
“The pacing of the courses has been a great fit for me, and my professors have always been approachable and willing to help whenever I’ve needed support,” said Jack Manley, a student of CVCC’s Homeschool Early College cohort. “Being part of the Homeschool Early College cohort has helped me become more independent and take greater responsibility for my own work and assignments. I’ve really enjoyed the campus environment. Everyone has been welcoming, and the cohort experience has given us the opportunity to study together, participate in activities and connect through the similar experiences we’ve shared.”
For families who cannot attend the on-campus preview, CVCC will also offer virtual Homeschool Early College information sessions via Zoom in the coming weeks. Dates and registration information for those sessions will be announced as they are finalized, providing additional opportunities for families to learn about the cohort and speak with CVCC representatives.
Whether a student is already considering Early College or a family is simply beginning to explore options available to homeschool students, CVCC encourages families to learn more about how the program can create a pathway from high school to college.
For more information about CVCC’s Homeschool Early College program, visit https://centralvirginia.edu/homeschool-early-college or contact Janet Ashley at ashleyj@centralvirginia.edu or by phone at (434) 832-7208.