TANNER – Four North Alabama high school students are walking through open doors of opportunity as they graduated from high school this spring with not only a high school diploma, but with Associate of Science degrees from Calhoun Community College.
Calhoun’s dual enrollment program allows 10th, 11th and 12th grade high school students with a 2.5 overall grade point average to earn college credit while still in high school.
Benjamin Blakely from Athens Bible School earned an Associate of Science Degree in General Studies and a short-term certificate in General Education; Spencer Holley from Brewer High School earned an Associate of Science Degree in General Studies and a short-term certificate in Advanced Manufacturing and General Education; Brylee Lake from Austin High School earned an Associate of Science Degree in General Studies and a short-term certificate in General Education; and Laci Parham, also from Austin High School earned an Associate of Science Degree in General Studies and a short-term certificate in General Education
“This should come as no surprise that the power of dual enrollment is truly undeniable,” said Dr. Jimmy Hodges, president of Calhoun Community College. “Each year, our dual enrollment numbers increase within our area high schools, and each year we produce work-ready students to industry before they are even able to finish their high school diploma.
“These young people are learning hands-on skilled trades in all areas of technology, engineering, business, healthcare as well as cyber security and are ready to enter the workforce immediately,” added Hodges.
According to Gwen Baker, Calhoun’s director of Dual Enrollment, during the 2022-23 academic year, the College’s dual enrollment program included over 2,050 students.
In addition to the four degrees, 50 high school students graduated from high school with short-term certificates in a variety of disciplines from Calhoun.
Due to the success of the program, Calhoun is increasing the number of students accepted into their dual enrollment program this fall, incentivized by a $250 Academic Support scholarship offered to students interested in enrolling.
“The scholarships will be paid from a previously awarded workforce funding grant,” said Baker. “We plan to award scholarships to students who apply on a first-come, first-serve basis until the funding is exhausted.”
Click here to learn more about Calhoun’s Dual Enrollment Program and how to apply for the workforce Academic Support Scholarship.
