STC and local school district counselors converge in annual symposium
Tony De La Cruz (top), South Texas College Director of Dual Credit Academic Pathways addresses counselors recently at STC's Dual Credit Academic Pathways fall 2022 Counselor's Symposium. Looking to “Bounce Back” following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dual Credit program met with partnering school districts who are weathering the return of students to in-person learning.
Dual Credit Programs at South Texas College together with its partnering school districts across the region are “Bouncing Back” with new energy and ideas in the aftermath of COVID-19.
STC Dual Credit Academic Pathways recently held its fall 2022 Counselors Symposium entitled “Bouncing Back: Rising from Tough Times.” The theme referred to the return of students to in-person learning from COVID-19 as well as brand-new opportunities to improve college completion and goals.
More than 60 participants from partnering school districts in Hidalgo and Starr Counties attended the event, which is held at least twice a year, and offers information and networking opportunities.
“Part of our organization’s expectations is to make sure that we're communicating any types of changes that are going on with the college, any updates that our partnering school districts may need to be able to execute their part and then keeping them informed of anything that might be affecting their student body and the district,” said Antonio De La Cruz, STC Director of Dual Credit Academic Pathways. “Together as partners, we are ensuring that all resources are available to the students because it's our responsibility in the community.”
“Part of our organization’s expectations is to make sure that we are communicating any types of changes that are going on with the college, any updates that our partnering school districts may need to be able to execute their part and then keeping them informed of anything that might be affecting their student body and the district. Together as partners, we are ensuring that all resources are available to the students because it is our responsibility in the community.”
The meeting with counselors included information on resources available for students at STC’s Center for Learning Excellence (CLE), the college’s University Relations and Transfers service, incident reporting procedures to the college, advising for students and the addition of new staff to the Dual Credit Programs team.
“A partnership is really important when it comes to the success of students and it's not only about the partnerships within institutions, but with the parents themselves,” said Nora Escobedo, director of counseling at Rio Grande City Grulla ISD. “Our partnership with STC is a strong one because we look at the success of the students above all. That's why we’re in this together.”
School district attendees at the meeting said there was renewed vigor among educators following the pandemic. Faculty said they recognize STC’s support to students and ensure that they transition smoothly into a post-secondary experience.
“Strategizing how we advise our students together with STC has been great and very eye opening. This gives me something that I can take back with me that will not only benefit my students but also the other counselors I work with,” said Maria Sanchez, academic counselor from Donna High School. “The message that STC is trying to convey has never been clearer, and I have attended this meeting for at least four years. I am really impressed at all the information they have been able to provide us.”
For more information about STC’s Dual Credit Programs please visit www.southtexascollege.edu/dual/.