Tri-C and Shaker Heights Schools Partnership Will Guarantee College Admission for Graduating Students

Partnership emphasizes postsecondary enrollment and success for District grads

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

Through the Direct Admission Partnership, Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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."

"This partnership with Tri-C affirms our commitment to expanding college access and success for all Shaker Heights students," said Shaker Heights Schools Superintendent David Glasner, Ph.D. "By removing barriers to higher education, we are opening doors for our graduates to pursue their goals with confidence and support."

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

Shaker Heights graduated 92.7% of its students in 2024, of which 75% continued their education at a postsecondary two- or four-year institution.

More information is available on Tri-C's Shaker Heights web page.

Tri-C announced its initial Direct Admission Partnership with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) in December 2024. To date, 848 graduating CMSD seniors are fully admitted to the College.

May 29, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu