Data-Driven Analysis: We collected and analyzed participation data from four community and technical colleges. With no centralized school district data available, we developed and deployed a survey to 44 districts to fill the gap. One of the biggest challenges wasn’t just increasing enrollment—it was simply knowing where things stood. Collecting comprehensive dual enrollment data required extensive effort, highlighting the need for a streamlined, sustainable data infrastructure that schools and colleges can maintain independently.

Stakeholder Voices: We conducted interviews with 6 local employers, 7 partner organizations, and Career & Technical Education (CTE) leaders from 6 school districts. A focus group with community college partners shed light on systemic barriers. We found that strong relationships between school districts and higher education institutions were key to successfully growing dual enrollment opportunities. The most successful programs were those where partners were aligned and working collaboratively to solve challenges.

Labor Market Alignment: By focusing on healthcare and education pathways—two of the highest-demand and best-paying industries in the region—we ensured dual enrollment programs were directly tied to strong career prospects. This meant students had a clear route to not only earning college credit but also entering fields with stability and competitive salaries.

Community Commitment: What made this project stand out was the deep commitment from local educators and leaders. Unlike some regions where collaboration can be a challenge, the Rio Grande Valley showed a strong, shared desire to improve outcomes together. The willingness of partners to work across institutions was a major asset in shaping a plan that would have real, lasting impact.