GONZALES - Tuesday, the River Parish Community College system along with Ascension Parish Schools will host an open house for eighth graders and their parents to explore an early college option. 

RPCC allows high schoolers to receive a high school diploma while simultaneously earning a two-year associate's degree. They can do all of this while having a normal high school experience. 

"It gives students the opportunity to have the best of both worlds. And to meet and communicate with students from all over the parish. It's the best kept secret in Ascension Parish," ECO Principal Nicole Joseph said.

The open house events are happening Tuesday night at the RPCC campus in Gonzales from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will cover the application process and what students can expect from the program.