The Dual Enrollment program at Texas Southmost College is introducing three new pathways this spring to the thousands of high school students TSC serves who are working to earn college credits before receiving a high school diploma.
Computer-Aided Drafting Technology, and Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology make up two of the newest offerings. Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) rounds out the new programs within the dual enrollment offerings.
“What’s interesting about these new programs is that they are technical programs that are in demand within industry,” said Executive Director of High School Programs and Services Jose Arambul. “This allows us to reach a different student population and get them into the workforce quicker, if that’s what they desire.”
Expansive Partnerships For Success
TSC’s Dual Enrollment program works with 13 local school districts. This includes Brownsville Independent School District, Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District and Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District. Also participating are Point Isabel Independent School District and San Benito Consolidated Independent School District. The districts together help TSC serve more than 20 high schools.
The dual enrollment additions now give students a choice of 14 different pathways. One of these students is Harlingen High School senior Nathan Gutierrez.
“Being a dual enrollment student with TSC has been a great opportunity for me and my family,” said the 17-year-old. “I’ve not only been able to save money toward a college degree, but I’ve also been able to get ahead on my college education.”
Gutierrez started taking dual enrollment courses such as English, government and college algebra as a sophomore in high school. He has intentions to attend a university in San Antonio and says this opportunity means a lot to him.
Increasing Enrollment
The difference TSC is making in the lives of students is why Myliss Parker says HCISD continues the longtime partnership.
“TSC has continuously been able to meet our students’ needs,” said HCISD’s director of Advanced Academic Services. “We have a great partnership and we’re extremely excited for the doors of opportunity their pathways have provided for our students and their families.”
Arambul said introducing new pathways has been a collaborative effort from leadership to instructors at TSC. The work has also been invaluable to increasing dual enrollment recruitment and graduates.
“When we work together, we’re able to provide a service to these high school students that at the end of the day meets their educational goals and needs,” he said. “For many of the students we serve, this type of experience is crucial in showing them that they have what it takes to be a successful college student.”
TSC’s Dual Enrollment program is on track to increase enrollment once again this spring. They also expect to graduate the largest dual enrollment class to date.