Dual Enrollment Programs Expanded with $736K Grant

Millersville University has been awarded a $736,000 Dual Credit Innovation Grant by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to expand its capacity for dual enrollment programs and enable students from underrepresented populations to access them.

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses and earn both college and high school credit. They have been found to increase college readiness, attendance and attainment, especially among traditionally underserved students, who are often underrepresented in dual credit courses.

"Ultimately, this grant is designed to increase the number of students in the region who go on to college," says Dr. Christina Pantoja Williams '04, director of academic engagement and community partnerships. "The program design will inspire students to explore a variety of options that lead to exciting career opportunities."

Millersville has established agreements with the School District of Lancaster, Penn Manor School District and La Academia Partnership Charter School so that their students may participate in the Dual Enrollment Scholars Academy, comprised of grant-funded summer workshops and dual credit courses taught by Millersville faculty at their schools and at the University.

The grant, which will extend over a two-year period, will allow Millersville to host weeklong summer workshops this year and next focused on four career pathways: teaching, business and entrepreneurship, applied engineering and human services. Students will live in campus residence halls and eat in the dining hall. They will also enjoy field trips to various locations.

This year's workshop is scheduled for July 19 to 24. Registration and additional information are available at https://www.millersville.edu/desa.