A 2019 report from The Georgetown University Center on Education indicated that 70% of jobs will require some form of postsecondary education or training by 2027. Postsecondary refers to completion of industry-based certificates, associate degrees, and/or bachelor’s degrees. Alliance for College & Career Student Success (ACCSS) in South Central Texas is new initiative in our rural communities that includes creating work-based academic programs for our rural, young people that lead to marketable credentials that contribute to building a competitive workforce, better lives, and stronger Texas communities. ACCSS is a collaborative partnership that includes The Blinn College District and the Columbus, Fayetteville, Flatonia, Schulenburg, and Weimar Independent School Districts. Since ACCSS was launched, there has been a 21.8% increase in academic dual credit course enrollment with a 98.9% passing rate this Fall! Considering academic and technical dual credit courses (which run year-long) in Spring ’23, the increase is 16.9%. The ACCSS program helps eliminate barriers that might have kept students from participating by providing scholarships, minimizing the need for transportation, and helping students be more prepared. Preparation is encouraged by providing resources, guidance and support. This solidly prepares students for university study or a career in a high demand field. The pathways students have to choose from include: 42 Texas Core Curriculum, Allied Health/Nursing, Construction & Building Trades, Welding, Teaching, and Agri-Business.
On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, ACCSS will host an Open House at Blinn College – Schulenburg Campus in room #120 of the Liberal Arts building. This event will begin at 6 PM with a BBQ meal provided for all attendees. Families of students who are presently in 8th through 11th grade are invited to come out and learn more about ACCSS opportunities. Students are currently selecting Fall 2023 courses, therefore having a good understanding of ACCSS programs is beneficial as parents approve course selections. Additionally, community members interested in learning more about ACCSS and how they can be involved as business partners, volunteers or donors are invited. The program will include ACCSS leadership and staff sharing about the background of ACCSS and the plans for its community impact, Blinn staff will share information on both dual credit and workforce training, and successful Blinn graduates will also be featured. To RSVP, please contact Regina Schramek at the Blinn College-Schulenburg Campus at 979-743-5214. For more information on ACCSS please contact Susie Shank at 979-743-5239, susie.shank@blinn.edu or visit their website www.myaccss.net.
