WTC President Dr. Laurie Sharp (in black on the right ) and WTC Director of Dual Credit and Course Sharing Molli Fleming (on the left in the blue jacket) with the Spur ISD Board of Trustees at their board meeting on September 28.
Helping Spur High School students turn college credit into career opportunities and a strong future close to home was the focus of Western Texas College President Dr. Laurie Sharp’s remarks to the Spur ISD Board of Trustees. She spoke to them at the Spur ISD Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, September 28.
Sharp outlined how Western Texas College (WTC) can support students and families through dual credit, college advising, career training and financial aid information. Her message emphasized a shared purpose: helping students see a clear path from high school to college and a meaningful career.
“Western Texas College and Spur ISD share an important purpose: creating opportunity for students,” Sharp said. “We want young people in our region to see a clear path from high school to college, a credential of value, a meaningful career, and a strong future.”
Dual credit allows students to begin college-level coursework while still in high school. Sharp highlighted transferable academic courses and career and technical pathways connected to regional workforce needs. Those opportunities can help students build confidence and gain momentum toward their next steps.
Sharp also emphasized that making college accessible requires more than offering classes. Students and families need clear information, straightforward enrollment processes and people who can help them along the way.
“At Western Texas College, we understand that access alone is not enough,” Sharp said. “Students and families need clear information, straightforward processes, responsive support, and people who are invested in their success.”
She added that WTC can provide advising and enrollment assistance, help students transition from high school to college and work with school districts to develop qualified dual-credit instructors. The College also helps families understand financial resources for dual credit and financial aid after high school.
The goal, Sharp explained, extends beyond earning college hours. Those credits should help students work toward a certificate, industry-based certifications, a degree, university transfer or a career.
That work also benefits the communities students call home. Connecting education with local and regional workforce opportunities can strengthen the economy and support the long-term future of rural West Texas.
“We are here for your students. We are here for your families,” Sharp said. “And we are committed to being a visible, accessible, and responsive educational partner for Spur ISD and this community."