Coastal Carolina Community College and Onslow Schools Expand Career and College Promise Program

Onslow County Schools is set to enhance educational opportunities for students through its ongoing partnership with Coastal Carolina Community College (CCCC). During the Board of Education meeting on April 1, 2025, key stakeholders discussed the success of the Career and College Promise program, which allows high school students to enroll in college courses while still completing their high school education.

David Heatherly, president of CCCC, highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the college and the Onslow County Public School System, emphasizing the positive impact of dual enrollment on student readiness for higher education. He noted that the program has seen significant growth, even during the pandemic, and praised the involvement of local principals in facilitating student access to college-level courses.

Superintendent Chris Barnes echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of providing students with accelerated pathways to success. He pointed out that the early college high school program has proven effective, with students achieving high performance metrics. The discussion also touched on the potential for expanding the program to include a second early college focused on career and technical education.

The meeting also addressed challenges faced by students, such as transportation barriers and the cost of textbooks. Stakeholders expressed a commitment to identifying and removing these obstacles to ensure that all students can benefit from the educational opportunities available to them.

In addition to the focus on dual enrollment, the meeting included updates on various initiatives, including upcoming Parent Academy sessions aimed at supporting families in navigating the college application process and understanding financial planning for higher education.

As the meeting concluded, board members expressed gratitude for the community's support and the collaborative efforts that continue to enhance educational outcomes for Onslow County students. The partnership with CCCC is expected to play a crucial role in preparing students for future academic and career success.