EVERETT — High school students and their parents can learn about Everett Community College’s Running Start program at an information session at 7 p.m. March 21 in EvCC’s Student Fitness Center at 2206 Tower St. in Everett.

College staff will discuss how to apply, options for full and part-time enrollment, student life and special program options, such as the Ocean Research College Academy (ORCA) program on the Everett waterfront that emphasizes local marine research.

Running Start is a partnership program between colleges and high schools. The program is available to eligible high school juniors and seniors. Students can apply college credit to their high school graduation requirements. Tuition for 1-15 credits is free.

ORCA is an early college academy for high school students, who can earn up to two years of college credit for free while completing their high school education. Most students graduate with an associate’s degree in addition to a high school diploma.

In addition to attending this session, EvCC encourages students to contact their high school counselors.

The deadline to apply for Running Start at Everett Community College for Fall quarter 2012 is May 1. EvCC serves more than 900 high school students through Running Start. Families are encouraged to park in spaces marked “Student.”

For more information about Running Start or other EvCC programs, call EvCC’s High School Relations Office at 425-388-9073 or 425-388-9008.