Valdosta City Schools has made the difficult decision to discontinue the Valdosta Early College Academy (VECA) program effective June 30, 2026.

VECA was established to expand access to advanced academic and early college opportunities for students. Over time, those opportunities have grown significantly across the district. Today, students can access accelerated learning pathways beginning in middle school and continuing through high school, including STEM-focused programs, honors coursework, Advanced Placement (AP), dual enrollment, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, without leaving their home campuses.

“This is not a decision made lightly,” said Dr. Craig Lockhart, Superintendent of Valdosta City Schools. “VECA has played an important role in expanding access to advanced opportunities for students over the years. As those opportunities have grown across our district, we now have the ability to serve students more effectively within their home schools while also strengthening their overall school experience.”

Additionally, as advanced academic opportunities have expanded across the district, the VECA model now duplicates services that are readily available in middle and high schools. Operating as a separate program has also limited some students’ ability to fully participate in extracurricular activities and the traditional school experience. This transition will allow students greater access to athletics, clubs, and school-based connections while maintaining strong academic pathways.

The decision also reflects ongoing challenges with the VECA facility, which was built in 1963 and requires significant repairs and upgrades that are not eligible for state funding. As a program, all operating and facility costs are supported by local funds, creating an increasing strain on district resources.

All VECA students will be supported in transitioning to programs that best meet their academic goals. Middle school students will have access to STEM-focused and accelerated programs, as well as advanced coursework within their zoned schools or through Valdosta Virtual Academy. High school students will continue to have access to a full range of opportunities, including AP and honors courses, the IB Programme, dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges and universities, including Valdosta State University, based on student acceptance traditional coursework at Valdosta High School, and Valdosta Virtual Academy.

Parent meetings are being held to review available options and support families through the transition process. All VECA faculty and staff will be reassigned within the district.

“We understand this is a significant change for our VECA families,” Dr. Lockhart added. “Guided by our commitment to Vision, Values, and Victory, we are focused on supporting every student and family with care, clear communication, and a strong path forward.”

Valdosta City Schools remains committed to providing a wide range of high-quality educational opportunities that prepare every student for success.