Barry University and Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores celebrated a major expansion of their longstanding partnership at a signing ceremony on the Barry University campus. Under a newly approved articulation agreement, Doctors Charter School students will have access to 12 Barry University dual enrollment courses beginning in ninth grade, giving them a head start on college coursework without leaving Miami Shores.

The agreement builds on a relationship that dates to the founding of Doctors Charter School and continues the vision of the partnership’s founding chair, Ambassador Charles E. “Chuck” Cobb, Jr. It creates a clearer, more direct pathway for Miami Shores students to pursue higher education close to home.

“This agreement allows local students to receive a critical head start on their college careers and represents our shared commitment to investing back into our local community,” said Barry University President Dr. Mike Allen.

“This is a historic moment for two important Miami Shores institutions,” said Mélida Matos, Head of School at Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores. “It reflects our focus and continued commitment to elevating education, expanding opportunities, and building a better future for our students. Barry University Provost Pablo Ortiz and the university’s academic leadership team led the development of the articulation agreement in collaboration with Doctors Charter School Head of School Mélida Matos and Director of Academics and Principal Dr. Diana Loubeau, a Barry University alumna.

The ceremony brought together leaders from across the Village of Miami Shores, including members of the Miami Shores Village Council, Village Manager Esmond Scott, representatives of the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce, and former Vice Mayor Alice Burch, Barry University alumna.

Dual enrollment allows high school students to earn college credit while completing their high school coursework, reducing the time and cost of a college degree.