Celebrating 25 Years of South Texas College Dual Credit Program: Transforming Education in the RGV
South Texas College (STC) is marking a significant milestone—the 25th anniversary of its Dual Credit Program, a transformative educational initiative that has positively impacted thousands of students in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). This program, which partners with 21 school districts and over 70 high schools, has saved Valley residents more than $450 million in tuition, making higher education more accessible and affordable for families in South Texas.
Empowering Students and Families
The Dual Credit Program at STC allows high school students to earn college credits, giving them a head start in their higher education journey. This opportunity not only reduces the financial burden on families but also sets students on a successful academic pathway from an early age. Over the past two decades, the program has grown exponentially, establishing itself as a leader in the field and earning accreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP).
According to Rebecca De Leon, Ed.D., associate vice president of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships at STC, the program’s success lies in its continuous expansion and collaboration with local school districts. “This year marks our 25th anniversary, and we are thrilled to see how the program continues to evolve. Our goal is to provide more students with high-quality educational opportunities and to help them achieve their academic and career goals,” she said.
Covenant Christian Academy: A New Milestone
The addition of Covenant Christian Academy in McAllen as the latest partner school exemplifies the growing reach and impact of the Dual Credit Program. Twenty-two sophomore and junior students are now enrolled, benefiting from the comprehensive support services and academic resources STC offers. Milton Gonzalez, Ed.D., the Head of School at Covenant Christian Academy, emphasized the significance of this partnership. “We are committed to student success, and the dual credit program is a testament to that. It provides our students with opportunities that were previously out of reach,” he explained.
Joseph Martinez and Caris Castro, students at Covenant Christian Academy, express their gratitude for the early exposure to college-level education. Martinez, a sophomore, plans to pursue degrees in music and pastoral theology, while Castro, a junior, aims to study psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. Both students acknowledge the program’s role in preparing them for future academic endeavors. “This program has been eye-opening and has given me a head start to reach my dreams faster,” Martinez shared.
Local Impact and Ongoing Challenges
The Dual Credit Program’s local impact is significant. It has enabled countless students across the RGV to enter college with credits already completed, potentially reducing the time and cost required to earn a degree. As the program celebrates its 25 years, it also reflects broader educational trends and concerns in the region, such as the challenge of providing accessible education to economically diverse communities.
While the program is celebrated for its successes, it is crucial to ensure that it continues evolving to address ongoing challenges. As Dr. Teresa Galvan, an educational expert from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, notes, “Programs like these are pivotal in closing educational gaps, but they must adapt to new demands and maintain their financial viability to continue serving the community effectively.”
Future Prospects and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, STC’s Dual Credit Program plans to deepen its partnerships and expand its reach further. Sabrina Garcia, the Secondary Assistant Principal at Covenant Christian Academy, expressed optimism about the future. “We’re keen on growing this partnership and increasing the number of students who benefit from this opportunity. Our students now feel that college is an attainable goal, which motivates them beyond high school,” she remarked.
Community engagement is also central to the program’s success. By involving local stakeholders and maintaining transparent communication with partner schools and families, STC ensures the program remains aligned with community needs and expectations.
For those interested in learning more about the STC Dual Credit Program, information is readily accessible online at southtexascollege.edu/dualcredit.
Conclusion
As South Texas College’s Dual Credit Program celebrates its 25th anniversary, its achievements resonate deeply throughout the Rio Grande Valley. By providing life-changing opportunities to young learners, STC has reinforced its commitment to educational excellence and community empowerment. The program not only represents a landmark in regional education but also serves as a model for other institutions seeking to make higher education attainable and beneficial for all.
This success story is a highlight for Valley residents and an example of how educational initiatives can have a lasting, positive impact on communities when driven by collaboration and a commitment to student success.
