The Running Start program was created by the 1990 Washington State Legislature to expand educational options for public school students. Running Start allows eleventh and twelfth grade high school students to take college-level courses, tuition-free, at the 32 community and technical colleges in Washington. This annual progress report for 1996-97 provides information about the program and its outcomes, as well as possible improvements. It begins with a program summary and background information, and clarifies the elements and criteria of Running Start. Qualifying high school students attend technical and community colleges to receive simultaneous credit for both high school and college courses, saving money for both taxpayers and students' families. Student characteristics for fall 1997 show that the majority of participants were white females, with a fair representation of ethnic minorities. The report provides student success and transfer outcome measures. Follow-up research on students who transferred to the University of Washington indicates that the college grade point averages and graduation rates of Running Start students are slightly higher than the average of entering freshmen. A discussion of program improvements and related issues, and enrollment reports by college for the 1996-97 year and fall quarter 1997 conclude the report. Appendices include statistics on Running Start students and graduation rates. (YKH)