Officials from Conway Public Schools and the University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton (UACCM) gathered on September 19 at Conway High School's James H. Clark Auditorium to formally announce and sign a Memorandum of Understanding that solidifies a new partnership in career and technical education (CTE). This collaboration gives Conway High School students in welding technology, drafting, and collision repair technology the opportunity to earn up to 21 hours of college credit before graduation—without leaving campus.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in both institutions’ commitment to expanding student opportunities. UACCM Chancellor Lisa Willenberg expressed her excitement about the partnership, noting, “This will enable students to graduate high school with a range of credentials—possibly concurrent credits, a Certificate of Proficiency, or even a technical certificate. We are very appreciative to Conway Public Schools for choosing UACCM as your CTE education partner, and we look forward to growing this partnership for years to come.”
Dr. Jeff Collum, Superintendent of Conway Public Schools, emphasized the importance of closing both the achievement and opportunity gaps for students. “There’s a lot of work that happens behind the scenes and in classrooms to close the achievement gap. But what we’re doing today is closing the opportunity gap. This partnership with UACCM is about giving you, our students, more choices, and we couldn’t be more excited.”
UACCM has experienced tremendous growth in its concurrent enrollment programs, with 780 students currently enrolled, reflecting a 16% increase from Fall 2023. Conway High School Principal Dr. Kate Worley, along with Conway Area Career Center (CACC) Supervisor Karey Smith, highlighted the immediate impact this partnership will have on students. “Currently, we have 18 welding students, 34 auto collision students, and 27 drafting students receiving concurrent credit,” said Smith. “This number is expected to rise next spring, offering even more students the ability to earn 21 hours of concurrent credit at no cost.”
UACCM Vice Chancellor of Academics Dr. Richard Counts praised Conway High School’s faculty for their role in making this collaboration possible. “A key component to this partnership is the exceptional faculty at Conway High School. Without them, none of this would be achievable,” he said.
As the partnership progresses, UACCM Vice Chancellor of Student Services Darren Jones underscored its cost-effectiveness, stating, “College isn’t free, but when we prioritize students, we can make these opportunities happen at no cost to them.”
The partnership between Conway Public Schools and UACCM is poised to transform the educational landscape for Conway High School students, offering them new pathways to success in both their academic and career journeys.