Six independent school districts in Texas have received more than $1 million in dual credit grants aimed at improving workforce readiness among high school students. The announcement was made by Governor Greg Abbott, who emphasized the importance of investing in the state’s future workforce.
“Texas’ best investment is the one we make in our young and growing workforce,” said Governor Abbott. “These dual credit grants will accelerate Texas students’ ability to gain the tools needed to achieve good-paying careers post-graduation. I thank the Texas Workforce commission for their commitment to training the next generation of hardworking Texans.”
The grants are distributed through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and are intended for purchasing, repairing, or replacing equipment for career and technical education (CTE) programs within these school districts.
“Dual credit grants are vital investments in Texas’ economic success,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Students who gain hands-on work experience while earning a degree or certification have a significant advantage in the job market, which can open pathways to higher salaries and faster career progression in high-demand occupations such as nurses, welders, and automotive technicians.”
Funding for these grants comes from the Skills Development Fund, which supports efforts to expand dual credit and CTE programs that address local demand for skilled workers. These initiatives allow students to earn college credits while still completing their high school education.
The six recipients of this round of dual credit grants include Austwell-Tivoli ISD ($220,000 for a phlebotomy program), Dimmit ISD ($218,429 for an automotive technician program), Hale Center ISD ($131,530 for a culinary program), La Villa ISD ($146,233 for a nursing program), Orange Grove ISD ($220,000 for a welding program), and Woodson ISD ($145,863 for a welding program).
Employers, schools, and students interested in further information about available training resources can visit TWC’s Education Services page at https://twc.texas.gov/services/education.
