District Newsletter: Expanding Dual Credit Opportunities for High School Students

Dual credit programs, where high school students take courses that count toward both a high school diploma and college credit, are one of the most concrete ways a district can expand access to post-secondary opportunity. When families understand what is available and how to access it, more students take advantage of it, which is the entire point.

What Dual Credit Is

Dual credit, also called dual enrollment, allows high school students to take college-level courses that count toward their high school graduation requirements and simultaneously earn college credit. Credits are typically transferable to public colleges and universities within the state. Students who complete dual credit courses arrive at college with credits already on their transcript, saving time and money.

What Is Expanding This Year

Beginning this school year, our district is adding [specific new courses or partnerships] to our dual credit offerings. We have partnered with [community college name] to offer [course names] at [school names]. These courses are available to students who meet the enrollment criteria and can be taken on campus or online depending on the course.

Eligibility

Most dual credit courses require students to be in grade [grade level] or above and to meet minimum GPA or assessment score thresholds set by the partner college. Specific eligibility requirements vary by course. Families should contact their student's school counselor to review which courses are available and whether their student meets current eligibility criteria.

Cost

Dual credit courses are [free to students under a state subsidy / offered at reduced tuition / free for income-qualifying students under our tuition assistance program]. Textbooks and course materials may have additional costs. Families should confirm the cost structure for each specific course before enrolling. The district covers [describe what district covers].

A Sample Dual Credit Newsletter Excerpt

"High school students in our district can now earn college credit before they graduate. We have expanded our dual credit options this year to include [courses]. Students who complete these courses arrive at college with credits already earned. Contact your school counselor to find out which courses are available to your student and how to enroll."

Benefits Beyond Credit Hours

Dual credit courses give students experience with college-level expectations in a supported environment while they still have access to high school counselors and advisors. Students who take dual credit courses are more likely to persist to college completion. The experience of succeeding in a college course while in high school builds confidence and academic identity in ways that matter long-term.

How to Enroll

Families interested in dual credit should contact their student's high school counselor. Enrollment deadlines for fall semester courses are [date]. A list of all available dual credit courses, eligibility requirements, and partner college information is posted on the district's college and career readiness page. Daystage newsletters include a direct link to the course catalog.