LCC-UISD partnership accelerates path to rewarding careers
Two is better than one for high school students at United Independent School District.
That’s because they can now train for a rewarding technical career program at Laredo Community College South and earn dual credit for a high school diploma and a college certificate.
Highlights of this unprecedented local partnership were presented by leaders from LCC and UISD at the Billy Hall Student Center at LCC South on Monday, Aug. 29.
LCC President Dr. Ramon Dovalina said the college has worked with area school districts to establish dual credit articulations for academic courses.
“However, this agreement is the first to formalize a plan of study in technical education whereby high school students will receive a college certificate along with their high school diploma,” Dovalina said.
The college hopes to establish similar partnerships with other school districts, particularly for technical training not currently available at area schools, Dovalina said.
Under the LCC-UISD dual credit articulation, high school students will be able enroll in a series of technical education courses at LCC South to receive the dual-credit advantage upon graduation.
“At this time the applicable courses are in computer information systems and diesel mechanics, two of the most high-demand occupations in Laredo,” Fred Solis, dean of workforce education at LCC, said.
Dr. Juan Maldonado, vice-president for instruction and student development at LCC, said that the dual-credit concept has been discussed for many years, but had never gone past planning.
“This time it has already started and it is happening at LCC South, thanks to the faculty and administration from United ISD and the college who worked together to develop the initiative,” Maldonado said.
Maldonado also expressed gratitude to the boards of LCC and UISD for allowing both educational institutions to proceed with the arrangement.
Solis added that the classes began on Monday, Aug. 15, but opportunity is still available to enroll new students.
UISD high school students who desire to learn more about this new educational opportunity may contact Solis’ office at 721-5437 or the departments of Industrial Trades (794-4071) or Computer Technology (721-5423).
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