10-Year-Old Honey Cooper Makes History as Dual-Enrolled College and Elementary School Student

At just 10 years old, Honey Cooper is already redefining what’s possible for young scholars in San Bernardino. A fourth grader at Kimbark Elementary School, Honey is simultaneously enrolled at San Bernardino Valley College,  a rare and remarkable achievement that has her community beaming with pride. “I go to Kimbark Elementary School and Valley College,” Honey said with confidence, casually describing a reality that sets her apart in the most inspiring way.

Like many children her age, Honey dreams big. She imagines a future as “an artist, a fashion designer or even a surgeon.” But what makes her story extraordinary is that she isn’t waiting to grow up to start chasing those ambitions. By stepping into a college classroom while still in elementary school, she is proving that age does not define ability.

Kimbark Elementary Principal Brittany Zuniga described the accomplishment as groundbreaking. “It's extremely rare,” she said. “What I love about Honey doing this and starting this is she's paving the way. She's opening the doors for everybody else, because I think so many of us didn't even think that this was a possibility.” For Zuniga and the school community, Honey’s enrollment challenges long-held assumptions about what young students can achieve.

Honey herself hopes her journey becomes a blueprint for others. “This can help kids, parents and even teachers… so anyone can do what I'm doing right now,” she said. Her words reflect not only ambition, but generosity,  a desire to lift others as she climbs.

Outside the classroom, Honey remains a vibrant and well-rounded child. She participates in theater, loves reading, and prioritizes time with friends and family. Her mother, Mia Cooper, emphasizes balance, noting, “Spending time with her friends is very important, because you have to work on that social skill.” Limited screen time and strong family values help keep Honey grounded.

Above all, Honey credits her family’s unwavering encouragement. “They always encourage me to try my best… and make sure to never give up,” she said.

Link: ABC7