As South Piedmont closes another successful academic year, the College is celebrating impressive student achievement made possible through its longstanding partnership with the Union County Early College.
Located on South Piedmont’s Old Charlotte Highway campus, the Early College gives students the opportunity to simultaneously earn their high school diplomas and college credit, helping them accelerate their educational journeys while reducing the cost of higher education.
This year’s results highlight the impact of that partnership.
During the 2025-26 academic year, 96 percent of Union County Early College students earned transferable college credit through South Piedmont, an increase from 88 percent just two years ago.
Student persistence also reached new highs. Union County Early College reported just 17 course failures and 10 course withdrawals during the 2025-26 academic year, a dramatic improvement from 127 failures and 109 withdrawals in 2021-22.
The Class of 2026 achieved another milestone, with 94 percent of graduates earning an associate degree from South Piedmont before receiving their high school diplomas — the highest percentage in the school’s history. According to Principal Michael Murray, the school also recorded its largest number of students earning academic certificates.
“These outcomes demonstrate what is possible when students are supported by dedicated educators, engaged families, and strong institutional partnerships,” said South Piedmont’s Vice President of Academic Affairs/Chief Academic Officer Dr. Travis Teague.
“We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of the Union County Early College students and grateful for our partnership with Union County Public Schools. The continued growth in student success reflects a shared commitment to helping students reach their goals and build a strong foundation for the future.”
The partnership between South Piedmont and Union County Early College continues to provide students with opportunities to earn college credentials, transfer to four-year universities, and enter the workforce with a competitive advantage.
South Piedmont congratulates the Union County Early College Class of 2026 on its outstanding achievements and looks forward to building on this success in the years ahead.