WTC President Dr. Laurie Sharp and Dual Credit and Course Sharing Director Molli Fleming (center) with the Colorado ISD Board of Trustees.
Colorado ISD students earned 2,065 college credit hours, nine certificates and 10 associate degrees through Western Texas College during the past three years, giving local students an early start toward college and career goals.
Western Texas College President Dr. Laurie Sharp highlighted those results and the growing connection between the College and Colorado ISD during the recent meeting of the district’s Board of Trustees. She spoke during the public comments section of the meeting.
“The numbers represent more than credits and credentials,” Sharp said. “They represent time, confidence, momentum and opportunity for students and families in this community.”
Annual dual-credit participation climbed from 62 Colorado ISD students in the 2023-24 academic year to 90 students in 2025-26, an increase of nearly 45% in two years. In all, a total of 143 district students participated in Western Texas College (WTC) dual-credit courses during the three-year period.
Dual credit allows eligible high school students to complete courses that count toward both high school graduation and a college degree or certificate. Students can shorten the time needed to earn a certificate or degree from WTC while building confidence for their next step after high school.
Sharp said continued collaboration can create a smoother path from Colorado ISD to WTC, then to a university or career and whenever possible, back to Colorado City and Mitchell County. She connected that work to local workforce development, economic vitality and employers’ need for skilled workers.
“Colorado 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.
The two institutions’ priorities closely align. Colorado ISD’s vision, “Better Together, Building a Legacy of Excellence,” focuses on educational opportunities that prepare students for lifelong success. WTC’s strategic plan calls for clear pathways through completion, stronger K-12 relationships and expanded dual-credit, early-college and career-pathway opportunities. Serving Students Together: A 10-Year Strategy for Western Texas College (2026–2036) can be viewed on the College’s website at wtc.edu/strategicplan.
Sharp also recognized Colorado ISD Superintendent Dr. Larry Polk Jr. for his leadership and commitment to open communication, student-centered decisions and stronger educational connections.
“Strong public schools and a strong community college are part of the same educational ecosystem,” Sharp added. “When we work together, our entire community benefits.”
Sharp closed with WTC’s guiding message: “People first. Purpose always. Forward together.” She noted that the phrase reflects the shared responsibility of both institutions to place students first, remain focused on a common purpose and strengthen opportunities across the region.