Durham’s new health care-focused high school welcomed 104 students with pompoms and cheers as it kicked off its inaugural school year on Thursday, Aug. 7. Durham Early College of Health Sciences (DECHS) is Durham Public Schools’ fourth Cooperative Innovative High Schools (CIHS).
CIHS, which include early colleges, middle colleges, and STEM or career academies, give high school students the chance to earn tuition-free college credits — up to and including an associate degree or industry-recognized credential — before graduation.
“Your future in healthcare starts here,” said a sign at the school’s entrance…