Texas Wesleyan and FWISD unveil partnership at Dunbar High School
Above: Texas Wesleyan University President Frederick G. Slabach and FWISD Superintendent Dr. Kent P. Scribner sign an agreement that will allow Dunbar students to earn college credit from Texas Wesleyan at no cost to the student.
Video: Watch FWISD's video of the announcement
Texas Wesleyan University and Fort Worth ISD announced today a grant-funded partnership that provides students at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School the opportunity to get a jump start on their college career.
Beginning in the Fall of 2016, Dunbar students will have the chance to enroll in and attend Texas Wesleyan classes conducted primarily in Dunbar classrooms.
“Texas Wesleyan is dedicated to being a catalyst for the economic resurgence of Southeast Fort Worth and to making our top-tier university accessible and affordable,” Texas Wesleyan President Frederick G. Slabach said. “The students and families at Dunbar High School that take advantage of this opportunity will reap the benefits for many years to come.”
Enrolled students have the opportunity to graduate from high school with 60 college credit hours completed, saving significant time and money toward their college education. This program will be at no cost to the students.
“Our mission is to prepare all students for college, career and community leadership,” said FWISD Superintendent Dr. Kent P. Scribner. “This community partnership with Texas Wesleyan is in absolute alignment with our focus of providing opportunity to our students.”
More than one-third of Texas Wesleyan students are first-generation college students and more than half are from Tarrant County.
This dual enrollment program will begin with approximately 100 incoming 9th grade students. The first graduating class would be in 2021. Students would be encouraged to continue their studies at Texas Wesleyan or another four-year university.
Texas Wesleyan is a private, coeducational university in Fort Worth. The university has seen significant growth in recent years as the result of the revitalization of East Fort Worth and its award-winning “Smaller. Smarter.” marketing program. Founded in 1890, the university recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, making it the longest-serving educational institution in Fort Worth.