In a recent meeting of the Scott County Board of Supervisors, the spotlight shone brightly on educational advancements and community support initiatives, particularly focusing on Mountain Park Community College's enrollment growth and the promising impact of the NECC Promise Program.

Dr. Chris Westover, president of Mountain Park Community College, opened the discussion by sharing encouraging enrollment statistics. For the first time since the pandemic, the college reported a 10% increase in full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment, signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels. This growth is vital as FTE figures are the basis for state funding, which supports the college's operations and services. Dr. Westover emphasized that while overall headcount increased modestly, many students are opting for part-time studies due to work and family commitments, which complicates funding models that favor full-time enrollment.

The college's demographic trends reveal that over half of the students attend part-time, with many balancing education alongside family responsibilities. The majority of students are pursuing careers in health sciences, reflecting a strong community need for skilled professionals in this field. Dr. Westover noted that the college is actively encouraging students to take on heavier course loads to expedite their graduation and enhance their earning potential.

Following Dr. Westover, Dr. Amy Greer provided insights into the NECC Promise Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at increasing educational attainment in the region. Funded by a $750,000 grant from the Jean Ann Foundation, the program offers tuition coverage for local high school graduates who maintain a minimum GPA and continuous enrollment. Dr. Greer highlighted the importance of this program in addressing the educational gap in Southwest Virginia, where only about 50% of residents have some college education compared to 70% statewide.

Despite the program's potential, challenges remain. Dr. Greer pointed out that many eligible students fail to complete the necessary FAFSA applications, which are crucial for securing federal and state aid. This barrier limits the number of students who can fully benefit from the Promise Program, underscoring the need for increased outreach to both students and their families.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for board members to advocate for the Promise Program within their communities, emphasizing the importance of higher education in today’s job market. As the region strives to elevate its educational standards and workforce readiness, initiatives like the NECC Promise Program stand as a beacon of hope for students seeking a brighter future.