Over the last three years, 44 Ira High School students began college through dual-credit courses from Western Texas College.
Dr. Laurie Sharp brought that number to Ira ISD's August 24 board meeting. Speaking during public comments, the Western Texas College President thanked trustees and district leaders for helping students make college progress before graduation.
"Ira ISD is preparing students for what comes next, and Western Texas College can help make that next step clear, accessible, affordable, and successful," Sharp said. “One of the strongest examples is the opportunity we are creating for Ira High School students to begin college while they are still in high school."
Sharp gave additional insights about the achievements the 44 students accomplished. The completed courses placed 480 college credit hours on student transcripts. Credential awards came in two forms: two certificates and nine associate degrees. Western Texas College’s Opportunity Tuition Waiver served 35 Ira High School students, leaving an estimated $52,380 in the hands of Ira families. Rather than treating the achievements as an endpoint, Sharp described them as a foundation for deeper work between the two schools.
"We value Ira ISD. We value this partnership. And we want to be an even stronger partner in the years ahead," Sharp told trustees.
The partnership also reaches beyond academics. Western Texas College (WTC) athletic teams and student-athletes have served and supported Ira ISD students, allowing college students to invest in younger learners, build relationships and demonstrate that college remains within reach.
A map for the next stage already exists. Ira ISD names support and postgraduation readiness as priorities. WTC’s 2026-2036 strategic plan, “Serving Students Together,” addresses those priorities with stronger K-12 connections, early-college options and clearly marked routes to completion.
Sharp recognized Ira ISD Superintendent Garrett Luft for his leadership that encourages open communication, looks beyond institutional boundaries and keeps students at the center of the conversation.
"Strong public schools and a strong community college are part of the same educational ecosystem. When we work together, our entire community benefits," Sharp said.
She noted that for Ira and Scurry County, students who study, work and settle nearby become part of the region's economic strength.
"Together, we can create an even more seamless pathway from Ira ISD to Western Texas College, to a university or meaningful career, and, whenever possible, back into Ira and Scurry County," Sharp said.
“Because this partnership is about more than dual credit. It is about workforce development and economic vitality. It is about helping local employers find the talent they need. And it is about giving families another reason to see Ira as a community where their children can learn, build careers, raise families, and thrive.”