On this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast Shawnee Caruthers is joined by Erika Giampietro, Executive Director at the Massachusetts Alliance for Early College. Erika recently led a design team as a part of the Accelerate ED initiative, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Accelerate ED is built on the idea that high schools can provide early access to quality higher education in ways that incorporate work-connected learning and have long-term benefits for students. This initiative helps state-based groups plan and build accelerated pathways between K-12 education, postsecondary education, and careers.  We’re also joined by Destiny Egbuta a student at Salem State University. Links:  Erika Giampietro Bio Erika Giampietro LinkedIn Massachusetts Accelerate ED Design Team