Calhoun County, AL – Alexandria High Graduate Credits Program for Academic Success and Future Savings
Calhoun County high school students are getting a head start on their college careers through the district’s robust dual enrollment program, which allows students to earn college credits while still in high school. The program has seen remarkable growth and success, with 501 students participating across the district during the 2023-2024 school year.
“We, as a district, are proud to be able to help students gain college credits prior to finishing high school as this not only provides them with confidence as they enter higher education, but it also helps put money in their families pockets by saving them college tuition prices,” said Superintendent Tony Willis. “We are very proud that so many of our students have taken advantage of this opportunity.”
A Success Story in Action
Recent Alexandria High School graduate Aubree Ford exemplifies the program’s transformative impact. Ford, who maintained perfect attendance throughout high school while serving as a school ambassador, majorette, and SGA reporter, completed over 50 college credit hours through dual enrollment.
“I really didn’t know much about dual enrollment when I started,” Ford explained during a recent interview. “My guidance counselor introduced the program, and after talking with my mom, who had done some college classes in high school herself, I decided to give it a try.”
What began as a cautious first step evolved into a comprehensive college preparation strategy. Ford strategically selected courses that aligned with her career goals in physical therapy, using study plans to identify required classes for her major.
“One of the main pieces of advice I give everyone interested in dual enrollment is that you might not know exactly what you want to do in college at first,” Ford noted. “I started with basic English, science, and math courses, then when I decided I wanted to pursue physical therapy, I looked up the study plan and just went down the list of available online courses.”
Academic and Financial Benefits
Ford’s experience highlights dual enrollment’s dual advantage: academic preparation and financial savings. With over 50 credit hours already completed, she’ll graduate from her undergraduate program two years ahead of schedule, allowing her to enter graduate school for her doctorate in physical therapy at a younger age.
“Since I have to go to grad school to get my doctorate in physical therapy, I already have two years under my belt for my undergrad,” Ford said. “I’m going to be able to graduate and get into the field of physical therapy a lot younger than if I had just waited and started taking my basics once I graduated high school.”
The financial impact cannot be overstated, according to district leadership. With college costs continuing to rise, the dual enrollment program provides significant relief for families while giving students valuable experience in college-level coursework.
Program Growth and Accessibility
Dr. Tony Dowdy, Assistant Superintendent of Calhoun County Schools, shared impressive statistics demonstrating the program’s expansion. District participation has grown significantly, from 271 students taking 652 dual enrollment classes in 2020-2021 to 501 students completing 1,340 classes in 2023-2024 – representing a 16.01% participation rate among eligible students.
The program offers remarkable diversity in course options, with over 80 different classes available during the 2023-2024 school year. These range from core academic subjects like English Composition and Precalculus Algebra to specialized technical courses such as Automotive Emissions, Engineering Blueprints, and Advanced 3D Modeling. Students can also explore creative and social science options including Introduction to Theater, Art Appreciation, General Psychology, and Introduction to Criminal Justice.
Getting Started: Guidance is Key
Dr. Dowdy stressed the importance of early planning and guidance counselor involvement. “We encourage incoming sophomores to talk with their guidance counselors about dual enrollment opportunities and proper placement,” he said. “The earlier students start planning, the more they can maximize their opportunities.”
Ford echoed this advice, noting that while dual enrollment classes are slightly less expensive than traditional college courses, students should take advantage of scholarship opportunities. “JSU is really good at providing scholarships for high school students,” she said. “I received at least two or three scholarships for free dual enrollment classes, which really adds up in the long run.”
Flexible Learning Options
The program accommodates various student schedules and commitments. Ford, despite her extensive extracurricular involvement in school and community activities, successfully managed her dual enrollment coursework through online classes offered by Jacksonville State University.
“Most classes were online with options for hybrid learning where you might go to campus for labs,” Ford explained. “Since I was so involved with my school and community, it was sometimes hard to get to campus for specific class times, so I stuck with fully online classes. Those classes are available for all students.”
Looking Forward
Superintendent Willis emphasized the district’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students. “We believe every student deserves the chance to get ahead in their education while saving their families money,” he said. “This program represents our investment in our students’ futures and our community’s economic development.”
As Ford prepares to continue her education as a JSU ballerina while pursuing her pre-physical therapy studies, she represents the success possible through Calhoun County’s dual enrollment program. Her experience demonstrates how the program can provide both academic advancement and significant cost savings while allowing students to remain fully engaged in their high school experience.
For families interested in dual enrollment opportunities, Dr. Dowdy recommends scheduling meetings with school guidance counselors to discuss course options, prerequisites, and long-term academic planning. With proper guidance and planning, Calhoun County students can follow Ford’s example of entering college with confidence, advanced standing, and reduced financial burden.
The dual enrollment program is available at all high schools throughout Calhoun County, offering students across the district the opportunity to accelerate their academic journey and invest in their future success.
