Laredo College announced a new six-figure grant geared toward student success initiatives, including a giveaway of 170 laptops.
The Accelerating Student Success Grant, funded by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), awarded $300,000 to Laredo College for its recently restructured Learning Enrichment Center, renamed the Center for Learning, Academic and Student Success (CLASS).
CLASS offers a new innovative way of learning, delivering student support services and increasing retention rates from term to term. It also reflects the “College of the 21st Century” goal of the Laredo College Strategic Plan and aligns with the college’s mission of being a learner-centered institution that transforms students’ lives through educational programs and services.
Dean of Academic Innovation & Technology Division Dr. Elizabeth Rodriguez and Associate Vice President of Planning and Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Veronica Martinez wrote and applied for the grant.
“Our entire team is excited about the possibilities this grant offers LC students,” Dr. Rodriguez said. “CLASS is an opportunity to bridge the gap between faculty and students by creating a safe place where students feel comfortable meeting with faculty.”
This project will develop and introduce new programs and workshops to support students during their academic journey at Laredo College. It aims to foster a community of learners and support programs to ensure student success and retention while creating an environment where students feel a sense of belonging and ownership.
CLASS seeks to provide students with an all-inclusive one-stop shop through engaging workshops, coaching, student/faculty engagement and other activities. It will also serve as an informational resource center for academics and career/transfer preparation.
All registered Laredo College students at both campuses are eligible to receive the services offered by CLASS, including academic coaching from faculty, workshops, peer-to-peer tutoring and peer mentoring. Part of this grant includes funding for Dell laptops that will be given away to qualifying students starting in February 2023.
To enter the laptop giveaway, students must meet the following criteria: be enrolled for the semester, be in good academic standing, receive tutoring services, engage in academic coaching with faculty and participate in CLASS workshops. Students who meet all the requirements will be entered into a drawing to win a laptop.
