Digital Learning Opportunities for Educators
Hello, educators! We had an amazing session on November 12 showcasing new strategies and updates for dual credit students in Texas. Our expert guest speakers from Austin Community College, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the Texas Education Agency highlighted new dual credit resources including the Financial Aid for Swift Transfer Program (FAST) which aims to provide dual credit courses at no cost to educationally disadvantaged students. Here’s a brief recap of our session:
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board created the FAST program to help educationally disadvantaged high school students earn college credit through dual credit courses at no cost. The FAST program increases access to college level classes, fast tracking students to earn credentials of value. Students eligible for the program will incur no cost for their dual credit coursework which includes books, supplies, and other course materials.
Maximizing Postsecondary Pathway Alignment for Schools and Students:
When partnering with institutions of higher education, the Texas Education Agency encourages your campus to strengthen its offerings to improve student outcomes and boost success in college, career, and military readiness. Recommendations include ensuring faculty qualifications and ongoing professional development, implementing effective academic advising and support systems, regularly monitoring and evaluating program effectiveness, and facilitating the seamless integration of dual credit courses.
Austin Community College (ACC) is making significant strides to enhance dual credit opportunities for students. Effective immediately, ACC has waived the $150 per-course fee for eligible ACC courses for high school students living outside the ACC taxing district. Additionally, TSIA2 testing is free at all ACC campuses through August 31, 2025, to help students meet college readiness standards. ACC also offers a free family newsletter to keep parents informed about resources and best practices to support their students. You can sign up by clicking here.
For those of you who couldn’t attend our session, do not worry! You can view our most recent session by clicking here. The Texas OnCourse team wants to remind you that our next Professional Learning session on the Texas First Program will take place on February 11. Staff from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Texas Education Agency will share updates on the Texas First Program and how it’s rewarding Texas’ early graduates. We hope to see you there!
