CITY OF INDUSTRY – Hacienda La Puente Unified’s Workman High School students are accelerating their college and career paths with the Workman Early College Academy Network (WECAN), a program offering free college classes on the high school campus through a partnership with Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC).

Now in its third year, the program allows students to earn college credits alongside their high school requirements, enabling them to participate fully in sports, extracurriculars, and their high school experience while progressing toward a college degree.

“This program is special because it looks different to each student,” Workman High junior and WECAN student Noah Avelar said. “I am expected to graduate from Workman with approximately 50 college credits, which feels amazing. I know what I want to achieve after graduation, and knowing I am ahead of the game while not having to miss out on the sports and school activities I love is awesome.”

By offering courses on the Workman High campus, students can grow together in the program, building strong relationships and support systems with their peers. Once accepted, students work closely with Workman High’s WECAN counselor Karla Gonzalez regarding the classes as well as additional support from WECAN teacher of special assignment Shireen Mahamad.

“I’ve had students who never thought college was in the cards for them, but WECAN has really changed that,” Mahamad said. “This program doesn’t just show them that college is possible—it makes them believe it’s within their reach, no matter where they started.”

The three-year WECAN program allows students to earn up to 50 transferable college credits, with the potential to graduate with an associate degree in communications by the time they finish high school.

“Our aim is to give students a head start, not just academically but in building the confidence to tackle college-level work,” Principal Timothy Espinosa said. “We’re creating opportunities for them to challenge themselves and ensure that college is more financially accessible.”

Students in the program also receive free textbooks and materials as well as Mt. SAC resources aimed at reducing any barriers to higher education.

“The WECAN program truly embodies this school year’s theme of ’Transformative Learning, Pathways for Student Success,’ by empowering students to take control of their educational journey,” Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez said. “We are laying a strong foundation for their future success, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the academic and career aspirations of every student.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

HLPUSD_WECAN1: Workman High School sophomore and WECAN student Brianna Justo kick starts her day with a Sociology 101 class on Sept. 24.

HLPUSD_WECAN2: Workman Early College Academy Network (WECAN) student Noah Avelar learns about the history of Rock ‘n’ Roll on Sept. 24.