Governor Greg Abbott announced that six independent school districts in Texas have received dual credit grants totaling over $1 million. The funds, distributed by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), are intended to support career and technical education (CTE) programs in these districts. The grants will be used for purchasing, repairing, or replacing equipment needed for student training as part of their high school coursework.
“Texas’ best investment is the one we make in our young and growing workforce,” said Governor Abbott. “These dual credit grants will accelerate Texas students’ ability to gain the tools needed to achieve good-paying careers post-graduation. I thank the Texas Workforce commission for their commitment to training the next generation of hardworking Texans.”
TWC Chairman Joe Esparza commented on the importance of these investments: “Dual credit grants are vital investments in Texas’ economic success. Students who gain hands-on work experience while earning a degree or certification have a significant advantage in the job market, which can open pathways to higher salaries and faster career progression in high-demand occupations such as nurses, welders, and automotive technicians.”
The Skills Development Fund provides funding for TWC initiatives aimed at supporting and expanding dual credit and CTE programs that respond to local needs for skilled workers. These programs also give high school students opportunities to earn college credits while preparing for future careers.
The grant recipients include Austwell-Tivoli ISD with $220,000 for a phlebotomy program; Dimmit ISD with $218,429 for an automotive technician program; Hale Center ISD with $131,530 for a culinary program; La Villa ISD with $146,233 for a nursing program; Orange Grove ISD with $220,000 for a welding program; and Woodson ISD with $145,863 also dedicated to welding.
More information about available training resources can be found on TWC’s Education Services page at https://twc.texas.gov/services/education.
