Innovative partnership allows students to earn more than 31 college credits while still in high school, potentially entering SUNO as sophomore nursing majors

NEW ORLEANS (Oct 22, 2026) – Rooted School New Orleans and Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) officially launched an innovative new Nursing Pathway today, giving high school students the opportunity to earn more than a full year of college credits before graduation and get a significant head start on careers in nursing.

The schools celebrated the partnership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on SUNO's campus, bringing together university leaders, Rooted School students, educators and community members to mark the beginning of the new program.

Through the partnership, interested Rooted School students can earn more than 31 college credits while completing their high school education, potentially positioning them to enter SUNO as sophomore nursing majors upon graduation. The program is designed to accelerate students' progress toward nursing careers while reducing the time and cost associated with earning a college degree.

"This partnership is exactly what Rooted School was created to do — open doors for students and give them a real head start on their futures," said Kaitlin Karpinski, Executive Director of Rooted School New Orleans. "Our students won't just be exploring a career in nursing. They'll be earning actual college credits, gaining hands-on experience and building relationships with professionals in the field, all before receiving their high school diplomas. We're incredibly excited to partner with SUNO to make this opportunity possible."

The Nursing Pathway combines college coursework with real-world learning experiences. Students will take nursing-related courses, including Anatomy and Physiology I and II, along with general education courses that are part of SUNO's freshman-year curriculum.

Beyond the classroom, students will have opportunities to participate in field experiences, internships, mentorships with nursing professionals and a capstone project. The program will also introduce students to trauma-informed care, helping prepare them for the challenges and responsibilities of working in healthcare.

“Today, we expanded our partnership with Rooted School by creating an opportunity for high school students to earn up to 31 college credits at no cost toward a SUNO nursing degree,” said Dr. Joseph Bouie, Chancellor of Southern University at New Orleans. “We consider Rooted School part of the SUNO family, and we’re excited that this partnership will provide students with a head start on their college education and a pathway toward high-demand careers in nursing.”

The pathway is open to all Rooted School students interested in pursuing nursing, with participation expected to grow as more students learn about the opportunity.

Today's ribbon-cutting featured Rooted School student and Nursing Pathway participant Khloe Cola, along with SUNO Chancellor Dr. Joseph Bouie, Rooted School Executive Director Kaitlin Karpinski, SUNO Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Bree Cook, State Senator Sidney J. Barthelemy II, District 3 and Gabriela Biro, Orleans Parish School Board Member, District 2, along with representatives from NOLA-PS, New Orleans City Council and Congressman Troy Carter's office.

The collaboration builds on Rooted School's mission to connect high school education with meaningful college and career opportunities, allowing students to graduate with more than a diploma — and a clear pathway toward their futures.

About Rooted School New Orleans

Rooted School New Orleans is a tuition-free public charter high school serving students in grades 9–12 on the campus of Southern University at New Orleans. Rooted provides students with rigorous academics, opportunities to earn college credits and industry-based credentials, and career-focused pathways designed to prepare graduates for success in college and high-demand careers.