Transformative Power of Dual Credit: STC’s Success in the Rio Grande Valley

Please disregard the earlier message. I realize it was an incorrect submission. Here’s the correct news article: — Dual Credit Success: STC Celebrates Transformative Community Partnerships **Revolutionizing Education in the Rio Grande Valley** South Texas College (STC) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to education and community development by celebrating the successes of its Dual Credit Programs. With an impressive enrolment of nearly 12,000 students, the initiative is positively impacting thousands of Valley residents and setting a benchmark for educational excellence throughout South Texas. **Collaborative Partnerships Fueling Change** STC recently hosted its annual Superintendent Leadership and Principals and Counselors meetings, highlighting the significant milestones achieved due to these vital partnerships. As of now, savings from the dual credit programs have surpassed $464 million, providing considerable financial relief to both students and families within the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). The driving force behind these achievements is the strong foundation built through partnerships with over 20 local school districts—each committed to fostering educational success. “Through Dual Credit Programs and our partnerships, we have built a strong foundation for future leaders,” noted Anahid Petrosian, Ph.D., Vice President and Provost of Academic Affairs and Economic Development at STC. “Together, we will continue to champion excellence, foster collaboration, and celebrate the success of every student.” **Enhanced Educational Access for Valley Residents** The Dual Credit initiative not only reduces tuition costs but also expands access to college-level coursework for high school students. Such programs enable students to gain college credits before completing high school, offering them a head start in their educational journey. According to STC, approximately 80% of courses offered utilize Open Educational Resources (OER), which ensure that learning materials are both accessible and affordable—a move championed by districts like the Hidalgo Independent School District. J.A. Gonzalez, Ed.D., superintendent at Hidalgo ISD, praised the program, saying, “STC Dual Credit provides our students with opportunities that propel them into their future. Our students are hard workers, and when you have systems in place such as this, it helps our entire region prosper. This is transforming families for generations to come.” **Emphasizing College Readiness and Local Success Stories** The proactive measures adopted by STC and its partners have resulted in life-changing transformations for students. Eunice Rico, a College, Career, and Military Readiness advisor at Weslaco High School, emphasized the program’s role in advancing student success and preparedness. She highlighted how the video of successful dual credit alumni played during the event was a powerful testament to the long-term impact of the program. “This was a testament to what dual credit can do for someone,” said Rico. “I was a dual credit alumna from STC, but so much has evolved for our new generations. The benefits are invaluable. We’re eternally grateful to STC for all the programs and opportunities they offer our community.” **Strategic Development at the Core** The meeting also featured significant updates from Andrew Lofter, Ph.D., director of Academic and Health Affairs with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and Krystal Garza, Director of Postsecondary Preparation Programs for the Texas Education Agency. Key topics of discussion included new outcome funding models, Texas Success Initiative eligibility requirements, and postsecondary success options. Krystal Garza, herself an Edinburg native, expressed her continued commitment to supporting the local educators’ efforts. “It’s always amazing to see the success initiatives our districts and colleges like STC put forth in our community, and we’re here to bridge that gap and continue to support your work, your partnerships, and your momentum,” Garza emphasized. **Future Implications for the RGV** Looking ahead, STC’s dual credit partnerships have the potential to fundamentally transform the educational landscape of the Rio Grande Valley. By reducing educational expenses and increasing college readiness, these programs set students on a trajectory for success in higher education and beyond. Furthermore, by aligning with state agencies and higher education bodies, STC continues to ensure that the region’s educational priorities are addressed with foresight and strategic collaboration. Rebecca De Leon, associate vice president of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships, stressed the importance of these community efforts: “In celebrating our school district partnerships, we also get to applaud the work it takes from all of us, together, to ensure college readiness. We have seen life-changing transformations in our students in our communities and in our region because of dual credit.” **For More Information** Valley residents interested in learning more about STC’s Dual Credit Programs can visit the college’s dedicated webpage at [South Texas College Dual Credit Programs](https://www.southtexascollege.edu/dual/). In summary, the STC Dual Credit Programs continue to thrive and contribute significantly to the prosperity of the Rio Grande Valley. As this model of collaboration and innovation continues to unfold, it sets a new standard for educational achievement and community engagement in South Texas. — This article highlights the significance of STC’s Dual Credit Programs, focusing on the local impact and the benefits for the community in South Texas, using the provided information and keywords.