Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott announced that six independent school districts in Texas have been awarded more than $1 million in dual credit grants. The funds, distributed through the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), are intended to help schools purchase, repair, or replace equipment for career and technical education (CTE) programs. These programs aim to provide students with additional training as they complete their high school coursework and prepare for high-demand jobs.

"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."

TWC Chairman Joe Esparza emphasized the importance of these grants, stating: “Dual credit grants are vital investments in Texas’ economic success. 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.”

The TWC uses funding from its Skills Development Fund to support and expand dual credit and CTE programs that address local needs for skilled workers. These initiatives also enable high school students to earn college credits while working toward their long-term career objectives.

The 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 learning more about available training resources can visit TWC’s Education Services page at https://twc.texas.gov/services/education.