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BREAUX BRIDGE – A partnership between South Louisiana Community College and St. Martin 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.
“We’re very proud and very excited to see this happen,” said Allen Blanchard Jr., St. Martin Parish Schools Superintendent. “Having programs like these at the career center get students interested in something they want to do. It gives them a goal to work towards.”
A series of industry-based credentials will be awarded to CTA students, which fulfill Louisiana Department of Education Jump Start Graduation Pathway requirements. High school students will be able to receive advanced training and skills development in areas such as culinary arts, electrical, and welding.
“We are thrilled to partner with St. Martin Parish Schools on this Collegiate Technical Academy,” said Chancellor Dr. Natalie Harder, with SLCC. “It’s exciting that this administration is really dedicated to moving the needle on educational attainment in St. Martin 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. Martin 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.
SLCC also partners with St. Landry Parish on a Collegiate Technical Academy.
For more information about SLCC’s Collegiate Technical Academy, please contact SLCC’s Dual Enrollment Office at 337-892-2364.
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ABOUT ACADIANA'S COMMUNITY COLLEGE
South Louisiana Community College is a comprehensive community college that operates campuses in Abbeville, Crowley, Franklin, Houma, Lafayette, Morgan City, New Iberia, Opelousas, St. Martinville, and Ville Platte. The college serves more than 15,000 students annually and offers an array of academic programs. Students earn associate degrees, technical diplomas, certificates, and industry-based certifications. It is ranked 14th among the Top 100 Associate Degree Producers as determined by Community College Week.