The Blinn College District and the Columbus, Fayetteville, Flatonia, Schulenburg, and Weimar ISD’s recently launched a new partnership designed to increase high school dual credit completion and establish seamless pathways toward postsecondary awards and industry credentials. The Alliance for College and Career Student Success (ACCSS) in South-Central Texas partner schools are collaborating to advise students regarding their college and career pathways, including technical and career training options. An Open House was recently held at Blinn College – Schulenburg Campus to help inform families and the community of this new opportunity for area high school students. Weimar ISD Superintendent, Jon Wunderlich, welcomed attendees and shared how the partnership was created. Program Director, Susie Shank, shared information on the implementation of ACCSS and that interested students should now be visiting with their counselors if they would like to explore a particular pathway. Shannon Loukanis, Dual Credit Advisor for the Blinn College District, shared that their staff is available to consult with ACCSS students and help guide them through the Dual Credit process. Dr. Becky Garlick, Executive Dean of Blinn College – Schulenburg Campus, shared resources from Texas Workforce Solutions to encourage students that it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming journey. Taking steps to get started in high school will make a difference as they pursue their future dreams. The pathways provided will help students acquire a job in a high demand, high paying field. The pathways they will have to choose from initially include: 42 Texas Core Curriculum, Allied Health/Nursing, Construction & Building Trades, Teaching, and Agri-Business. The Open House concluded with a panel of past Blinn students who shared how being a Blinn student helped or is helping them reach their career goals.
This panel included: Selah Waltz/CNA, Hannah Garlick/Agri-Business, Caitlin Urban/Teaching, Blake Meyers/Welding, and Kadin Schmitt/42 Core. The goal of ACCSS is to increase access to these opportunities for all students. With the cooperation of partner schools and the support of community investors, transportation and cost of fees and tuition will not be a barrier to students enrolling. This opportunity will enhance the future of any student willing to step up to the challenge.
For information regarding ACCSS, contact Susie Shank, Director, at the Blinn College-Schulenburg Campus at 979-743-5239 or susie.shank@blinn.edu, visit with the high school counselor at your student’s campus, or explore the ACCSS website at www.myaccss.net. Current happenings may be followed on Facebook at @ACCSS5.
About ACCSS:
It is the mission of Alliance for College and Career Student Success in South Central Texas (ACCSS) is to collaborate as a partnership with rural public-school districts and institutions of higher education to provide academic and career resources, guidance and support necessary for students to complete a post-secondary or workforce career credential.
(L-R) Selah Waltz/CNA, Hannah Garlick/Agri-Business, Caitlin Urban/Teaching, Blake Meyers/Welding, and Kadin Schmitt/42 Core
