Heights Schools Announce Direct Admission Partnership With Tri-C

Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) and the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District have created a seamless high-school-to-college transition that guarantees every student has access to higher education.

Through the Tri-C Direct Admission Partnership, CH-UH students are automatically admitted to Tri-C during the fall of their senior year. Both institutions will focus on simplicity to deliver clear communication and streamlined processes, breaking down barriers to applying to college.

"This partnership reflects our shared belief that every student deserves a clear path to higher education," said Tri-C President Michael A. Baston, J.D., Ed.D. "By guaranteeing admission for graduating seniors, we are investing in a future where education empowers a new generation to lead with knowledge and purpose. Together, we are building a bridge to opportunity that extends to lifelong success."

“Our school district is highly committed to providing our students with equitable opportunities for their futures, and this partnership will help us fulfill that commitment in an important way,” said CH-UH Schools Superintendent Liz Kirby. “I’m excited to see how the direct admission program opens doors for Heights students as they take their next steps after graduation.”

The partnership ensures that graduating students have a clear pathway to higher education and helps them stay on track to achieve their educational goals by:

• Removing traditional barriers to higher education, such as application fees and complex applications
• Simplifying the admissions process by efficiently using shared data to eliminate unnecessary steps
• Providing personalized resources, such as advising, wraparound services and financial aid workshops
• Empowering students and families by providing information about financial aid, enrollment steps and affordability

The District’s four-year graduation rate for the Class of 2024 was 90.2%. Approximately 56% continued their education at a postsecondary two- or four-year institution, within two years of high school graduation.

The Tri-C Direct Admission Partnership supports students and families by offering a clearer route into higher education. With admission guaranteed for seniors, the program increases the likelihood that more graduates continue their education without navigating unnecessary steps or expenses tied to traditional applications.

The Class of 2026 will be the first Heights class to participate in the Tri-C Direct Admission Partnership. More information will be shared with students, families, staff, and the community in the coming weeks.

CH-UH is the fourth district in Northeast Ohio to join the initiative.