TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — For the first time, the Pike County Academy program is partnering with Troy’s Hall School of Journalism and Communication, allowing students to take Troy journalism classes while enrolled in high school.

“There was a need for students who might be interested in writing or producing or working in television to be able to go ahead and start learning those things as a high school student,” said Dr. Robbyn Taylor, director of the Hall School of Journalism and Communication. “We’re really excited to have our first student down here and she’s already excelling.”

That student is Annalee Chance, a high school sophomore enrolled in the Pike County Academy program. Chance said the new journalism partnership is beneficial for her journey as a student.

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“Not only does it allow you to pursue something you’re interested in, but it also provides your major core classes in college,” Chance told TrojanVision. “You’re getting them for free ahead of time, it’s a lot of responsibility and it’s a lot of work, but it’s beneficial.”

Students enrolled in the academy program will graduate with an associates degree from Troy University when they graduate from high school. Leaders of the Hall School of Journalism and Communication and the Pike County Academy hope that more students will begin taking advantage of the classes.