AC obtains grant to integrate basic education, workforce training

The Accelerate Texas IV: Integrated Education and Training grant provides scholarships and support for 75 students in AC’s Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) programs as they pursue Level I certificates along these occupational pathways:

• Electromechanical Technology
• Machine Tool Technology
• Truck/Commercial Vehicle Operations
• Nursing Assistant/Aide
• Business Administration and Management
• Business Technology
• Automotive and Diesel
• Welding

The College’s AEL program provides instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL), High School Equivalency (HSE), and Academy models that support the transition of adult education students into the College.

The Accelerate Texas brand is shared with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

By enrolling adult learners concurrently in contextualized basic education courses, such as reading and math, at the same time they are learning high-demand job skills, both the individuals and the local workforce stand to prosper.

“This is an important opportunity for students who want to accelerate completion of a credential of value,” said Linda Muñoz, associate dean of academic success. “The programs this grant supports align with labor-market demand and lead to jobs that provide family-sustaining wages.”

A career navigator will coordinate vital advising, instructional and mentoring assistance, and a variety of social-service supports will be utilized on the students’ behalf.

The grant is for two years and officially began on Jan. 14, which coincided with the first day of AC’s 2019 spring semester.

*Project support includes $187,500 in Federal funds (61% of total project cost) and $121,875 of institutional funding (39% of total project costs).