Isaiah McGee, Darrian Edward, and Daelon Rideau from North Central High School in LeBeau signed commitment letters recently.
OPELOUSAS – A first-of-its-kind partnership in Louisiana between South Louisiana Community College and St. Landry Parish Schools will offer dually-enrolled students the opportunity to earn college technical diplomas in a variety of programs while on a high school campus.
The Collegiate Technical Academy, modeled after the Early College High School concept, offers the advanced training necessary for students to graduate and enter high-wage, high-demand careers in industries such as automotive, welding and culinary arts.
“This partnership is truly a win-win for the students, workforce, and our region,” said Superintendent Patrick Jenkins with St. Landry Parish Schools. “The CTA will fill gaps between meaningful, comprehensive career preparation and the successful acquisition of gainful employment for students graduating from high school.”
A series of industry-based credentials will be awarded to CTA students, which fulfill Louisiana Department of Education Jump Start Graduation Pathway requirements.
“We are thrilled to partner with St. Landry Parish Schools as our first Collegiate Technical Academy,” said Chancellor Dr. Natalie Harder, with SLCC. “It’s exciting that this administration is really doubling-down to move the needle on educational attainment in St. Landry Parish.”
Students will be classified as SLCC students and will be afforded the same benefits as SLCC students, according to Caronda Bean, SLCC’s Director of Dual Enrollment. “Students will also participate in both a high school graduation and college graduation upon completion of the program,” she said.
There is no direct cost to the student to enter the CTA.
Should a student choose to continue their education after earning their technical diploma, they can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree within one semester – completing five general education courses.
Both St. Landry Parish Schools and SLCC are partners in OneAcadiana’s 55x25 initiative to increase the proportion of working adults in Acadiana with postsecondary degrees, certificates, or other high-value credentials to 55% by 2025.
For more information about SLCC’s Collegiate Technical Academy, please contact SLCC’s Dual Enrollment Office at 337-892-2364.
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