High school dropouts and those on the verge have a new option for getting their degree. On Wednesday, the Old Rochester Regional School Committee unanimously approved subscription to Bristol Community College’s Gateway to College program.

Gateway, part of a national initiative, helps students complete credits needed for their degree and transition to college.

“For me it’s reengaging someone who has dropped out or could drop out,” said Principal Mike Devoll, who first presented the program to the committee in November. “It’s going to provide opportunities that weren’t there.”

Schools enrolled in the program pay $3,500 per student per semester and receive updates on students every two weeks.

Devoll said a student who dropped out last year called the school this week to ask if she could re-enroll.

“A year removed, a year older would make it much more challenging for this student,” he said.

Devoll said Gateway would be a better fit for the student who had difficulty in a traditional classroom setting. She was excited about the opportunity, according to Devoll.

Other students have been identified as possible candidates for the program, he said.

“It will help with our state reporting and hopefully spark an interest in continuing to a four-year degree,” said Devoll.