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Welcome to the Running Start information page. This program is a unique opportunity for Clallam Bay High School juniors and seniors to earn college credit while completing their high school graduation requirements.

 

Below you will find answers to the most common questions regarding how the program works at our school and through our partner, Peninsula College.

What is Running Start?

Running Start is a statewide program that allows high school juniors and seniors to take college-level courses at Washington’s community and technical colleges.

  • Dual Credit: You earn high school and college credit at the same time.

  • Tuition-Free: The school district pays the tuition for college-level courses (up to 15 credits per quarter).

 

Who is eligible to participate?

To participate, a student must:

  1. Be a high school junior or senior.

  2. Meet the placement requirements for Peninsula College (usually determined through high school GPA , earning a 3 or 4 on the SBA ELA & math, or a placement test).

  3. Be ready for the independence and pace of a college environment.

How much does it cost?

While tuition is covered, Running Start is not completely free. Families should plan for the following expenses:

  • Books and Supplies: College textbooks can be expensive ($100–$500 per quarter).

  • College Fees: Students are responsible for laboratory fees, technology fees, and parking permits.

  • Transportation: Students must provide their own transportation to the Peninsula College campus or the Forks site.

Note: Students who qualify for the Free or Reduced Price Lunch program may be eligible for a Fee Waiver, which covers most college fees and may provide assistance with book costs. Please see the school academic counselor for more information.

How do I get started?

  1. Apply to Peninsula College: Complete the online application at the Peninsula College website.

  2. Take the Placement Test: Or submit your high school transcript to see if you place into college-level English and Math.

  3. Meet with the High School Academic Counselor: You must complete the Running Start Agreement Form and a Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF) every single quarter to ensure your college classes meet graduation requirements.

  4. Register for Classes: Once your RSEVF is signed, you can register for your classes through the college portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still play sports at CBHS? Yes! Running Start students remain Clallam Bay students. You are eligible to participate in all high school sports, clubs, and graduation ceremonies, provided you maintain WIAA eligibility requirements.

How do the credits transfer? Generally, 5 college credits equal 1.0 high school credit. Most credits earned at Peninsula College will transfer to Washington’s public four-year universities, but it is always best to check with your target university’s admissions office.

What if I struggle in a college class? College classes move much faster than high school classes. If you are struggling, you should immediately contact your professor and utilize the Peninsula College Learning Center for free tutoring. Remember: these grades stay on your permanent college transcript forever.

Does the bus go to the college? Clallam Transit offers routes between Clallam Bay, Forks, and Port Angeles. Many of our students also choose to take online classes to avoid the commute while still earning college credit.

Still have questions?

We are here to help you navigate this transition!

  • CBHS Academic Counselor: Mrs. Kelli Wilson, kwilson@cfsd401.org

  • Peninsula College Running Start Office: rstart@pencol.edu, (360) 417-6341