South Texas College pitches local dual‑credit and workforce hub to Edcouch‑Elsa trustees
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Summary
Representatives from South Texas College urged the Edcouch‑Elsa ISD board to approve a memorandum of understanding to bring dual‑credit courses and short‑term workforce certificates to the district; the MOU is being developed and will return for legal review and board approval.
Representatives from South Texas College asked the Edcouch‑Elsa Independent School District board on Oct. 27 to formalize a partnership to expand dual‑credit and short‑term workforce training in the Delta area.
Doctor Solis, speaking for South Texas College, highlighted the local reach of dual credit, saying, “over 11 years ... we have saved over $6,500,000 for your families,” and noted the college currently has roughly 200–220 Edcouch‑Elsa students enrolled in dual‑credit courses. The presentation identified programs that could be offered locally — welding, OSHA 10/30 certifications, registered apprenticeships, certified production technician and CDL training — and emphasized short‑term certificates designed to lead quickly to employment.
The presenters said an MOU is under development to set program details and logistics. Board members thanked the college for renewed outreach after prior attempts that did not take hold locally and asked staff to review the MOU language. One trustee asked that final agreement terms be subject to legal review and superintendent negotiation before the board grants formal approval.
South Texas College staff also described operational support the college could bring, including leveraging Region 1 equipment and coordinating with local employers. College representatives said some programs could begin quickly once classroom space and an MOU are in place, and they noted potential pathways for students to earn apprenticeships while still in high school.
What’s next: district staff will review the draft MOU and return with recommended language and any legal edits. The board did not take a final vote on the partnership at this meeting.