From Robotics to Zoology: The Dynamic Courses That Make JPEC One of a Kind

At Jackson Preparatory and Early College, we believe that real learning starts with real connection, and that means meeting students where their curiosity lives. Our students are earning college credits, building career pathways, and graduating with credentials most adults don't have. But they're also painting, performing, building robots, and studying wildlife. JPEC students know firsthand that a well-rounded education isn't just about what comes after graduation. It's about who you become along the way. 

Here's a few of the JPEC elective courses you need to know about…

Robotics

For students who love to tinker, create, and compete, JPEC's robotics program is a launchpad unlike anything else in Jackson County. JPEC students learn the engineering, programming, and collaborative problem-solving skills all on the campus of Jackson College. Our College Prep and Early College robotics teams compete in FIRST Robotics competitions and have consistently qualified for both State and World Championships!

Painting & Ceramics

At JPEC, creativity has a home. Our on-campus art studios give students dedicated, inspiring spaces to explore with clay on a pottery wheel, using their hands and their creativity. Picking up a brush for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills? These courses meet JPEC students exactly where they are.

Intro to Music

In our state-of-the-art music room, students in Intro to Music explore the foundations of musical expression, from theory and history to listening and creating. With JPEC's personalized approach, every student gets the support they need to find their rhythm at their own pace.  Students who take to the music program have the opportunity to further their interest in band and choir.

Bridge Building

Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math come together in JPEC's Bridge Building course. This course is designed to show students that the boundaries between subjects are more fluid than they think. At the end of the class, students travel to the Michigan Department of Transportation’s annual TRAC competition to pit their bridges against competition from around the state.

Zoology 

In Zoology, JPEC students explore animal biology, behavior, ecosystems, and conservation in a course that brings science to life in an engaging, meaningful way. As a school located on the Jackson College campus, JPEC students have access to college-level resources that enrich every subject, including the sciences. Can you see your child enjoying a course on Zoology at JPEC?

Beginner Band

Students learn the fundamentals of playing in an ensemble alongside their peers during beginner band class. Reading music, developing rhythm, and finding their sound is an experience that builds patience, discipline, and joy in equal measure. No musical background is required, just a willingness to try something new.

Choir

In our dedicated music room, students enrolled in choir come together to find their voices and develop vocal technique. 

JPEC students are anything but ordinary; they’re emerging artists, musicians, scientists, engineers, and creators, and our course offerings are built to explore. Seeing these dynamic course offerings, you might be wondering: "How much does Jackson Preparatory & Early College cost?" Brace yourself, Jackson Preparatory and Early College is completely tuition-free. 

Curious to see more of life at JPEC? Schedule a campus tour → Learn more here. 

About Jackson Preparatory & Early College (JPEC)

As a public school academy for middle and high school students Jackson Preparatory & Early College (JPEC), Michigan’s only whole school Early College program with a middle school, offers 6th – 13th graders the opportunity to foster independence safely. Founded more than a decade ago and housed at Jackson College, JPEC offers access to world-class facilities which enables us to provide an excellent tuition-free education that includes credit-earning college courses and career-defining certifications. We value competency-based learning -- what you know how to do, not just what you know. Achieve an associate’s degree and a high school diploma simultaneously. Every student can succeed here. Enroll now. Find us at jacksonpec.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.