Opening Doors Early: The Power of Dual Enrollment
One of the most powerful tools we have to expand access to higher education and workforce opportunity is also one of the most straightforward: dual enrollment.
At Tallahassee State College, we are proud to offer a robust dual enrollment program that allows high school students to take college-level courses at no cost to them or their families. These students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously, giving them a head start on their future, whether that path leads to a university degree, a technical career, or immediate entry into the workforce.
This spring, we celebrated a record-breaking 75 dual enrollment graduates, each of whom completed their associate in arts degree before even receiving their high school diploma. Their success speaks to the power of partnership, preparation, and perseverance.
But let me be clear: dual enrollment is about more than just earning a degree early. It’s also about exploring passions, discovering career pathways, and developing the confidence that comes from achieving real results in a college environment. These programs are transformative. A perfect example is our groundbreaking partnership with Leon High School and the Tallahassee Fire Department—a dual enrollment Firefighter Career Pathway that launched in the 2024–25 school year. This initiative allows high school students to begin training for careers in public safety while completing their high school education. It’s the first of its kind in the region, and it’s already making an impact.
Why Dual Enrollment Matters
Dual enrollment students are more likely to graduate from high school, enroll in postsecondary education, and earn a college credential. They also save time and money on their education, reduce student loan debt, and build college-level confidence while still in high school. These programs are open to public, private, and home-educated students who meet eligibility requirements.
When we talk about workforce education and economic development in Florida, dual enrollment should be part of that conversation. It’s about giving high achievers a head start and it’s about meeting all students where they are, connecting them to opportunity, and helping them imagine what’s possible.
If you’re a parent, student, educator, or community leader interested in learning more about how dual enrollment works, I encourage you to explore the resources below:
Together, we can open more doors, support more students, and prepare the next generation of leaders—starting now.