IRMO, S.C. — School District Five and Midlands Technical College celebrated the launch of a new Dual Enrollment Associate in Arts Pathway August 21 at Midlands Tech’s Harbison Campus.
The first-of-its-kind partnership between School District Five and Midlands Technical College creates a new opportunity for eligible students to earn college credits while still in high school. Students can work toward an associate degree and high school diploma at the same time, tuition-free, helping remove a significant financial barrier to higher education.
“This partnership represents an important step in creating clear, accelerated pathways for students to reach their academic and career goals,” said Dual Enrollment Program Lead Dr. Tim Swick. “By starting college coursework as early as sophomore year, students can save time, reduce college costs, and graduate better prepared for the future.”
Midlands Technical College President Dr. Greg Little said the partnership demonstrates the value of schools and colleges working together to create new opportunities for students.
“We are thrilled about our partnership with Lexington-Richland School District Five and grateful for the leadership of Dr. Ross and his team, who have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life,” Little said. “School District Five has established a strong tradition and reputation for excellence, and today, we are building on that foundation by creating something new and dynamic for students.”
Parents also see the benefits of allowing students to earn college credits and experience college-level coursework while still in high school.
“From the beginning, we’ve been talking with our son about planning for his future, and this program gives him an incredible head start,” Christine Ahrens said. “Earning his associate degree while still in high school allows him to experience college-level learning while continuing to have the support of his family, his school district and Midlands Technical College.”
Ahrens said the program also gives her son, who is an athlete, the opportunity to consider pursuing education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Fifteen students are enrolled in the program this year, with district and college officials hoping to expand the opportunity to more students in the future.
“Being among the first to walk down a new path can be intimidating, but these students chose to take that first step,” School District Five Superintendent Dr. Akil E. Ross Sr. said. “They are choosing an opportunity that can save their families as much as $30,000 in college tuition while earning 60 hours of college credit.”
“That is more than college credit—it is an investment in their future and a pathway that can open doors that may not have been accessible before,” Ross said. “I salute our students for having the courage to take this path, and I am grateful to the team and our partners who worked together to make it possible.”
