VHTPA History

In 2002, Los Angeles Harbor College and Local District 8 of the Los Angeles Unified School District partnered to establish the Dr. Richard A. Vladovic Harbor Teacher Preparation Academy (VHTPA), a four-year Early College high school located on the campus of Harbor College. VHTPA is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and offers students the opportunity to concurrently earn a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree. It holds the distinction of being the first Early College High School established in the nation and has one of the highest percentages of students earning both high school and college diplomas.

The program was designed with the primary goals of increasing graduation rates, boosting college enrollment among at-risk but high-achieving students, and addressing the local teacher shortage by inspiring future educators within Local District 8. VHTPA serves a diverse student population with exceptional potential, including those facing challenges such as low-income backgrounds, single-parent households, non-English primary languages, and other barriers to academic success.

To support these students, VHTPA fosters a nurturing, cohort-based environment by situating its high school curriculum on a college campus. Students are enrolled in strategically selected college courses that enhance academic development, build confidence, and elevate self-esteem through early success in higher education.