South Piedmont Community College is seeing a major increase in interest from high school students seeking a head start on their college and career goals. Applications to South Piedmont Community College’s Career & College Promise (CCP) program have increased by 35.43% for the 2025 terms compared to the previous academic year.
Through CCP (also known as dual enrollment), eligible high school students earn college credits while also completing their high school diplomas. Tuition for these students is waived. The CCP program saves students and their families time and money as they progress toward their higher education or workforce goals.
The College received 1,078 applications for CCP enrollment for Spring 2025 through Fall 2025, up from 796 applications submitted between Spring 2023 and Fall 2024.
“We’re incredibly excited to see this growth in CCP applications — it’s a reflection of the hard work our team has put into building strong relationships with students, families, and our school partners,” said Director of Secondary Education Partnerships Dr. Marsha Thomas.
“This increase isn’t just about numbers — it represents more students getting a head start on their future, gaining college credit, and exploring meaningful career pathways. That’s a win for them, for our college, and for our entire community,” said Thomas.
Beyond cost savings, CCP courses also offer students early exposure to high-demand career pathways — while providing valuable opportunities for career exploration — in fields such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, business, and information technology. South Piedmont offers multiple pathways tailored to both college transfer goals and direct-to-career certifications.
The College has been actively partnering with local school districts, community-based organizations, counselors, and parents to promote CCP. And it’s working. Interest is surging not only among traditional college-bound students, but also among students seeking technical skills and certifications before their high school graduation.
“We’re focused on reaching more students than ever by being strategic and intentional — from streamlining our programs to ensuring consistency across the board. By building strong partnerships and aligning our efforts, we create a more unified and accessible experience for all students across our school districts, whether they attend charter, homeschool, private, or public schools,” said Thomas.
To help students make the most of CCP, South Piedmont has invested in a team of dedicated Career Coaches who work directly with high school students and their families. These coaches provide personalized guidance on academic and career pathways, assist with course selection, and help students understand how dual enrollment can support their long-term goals. Career Coaches also meet with parents and guardians to ensure families are informed and involved in the CCP process.
“Being a career coach is especially meaningful to me because I get to support students who may be the first in their family to attend college. I understand how overwhelming the process can be, and I’m here to make sure they don’t have to figure it out alone. Helping them see what’s possible and take those first steps is incredibly rewarding,” said Jolene Brown, the career coach at Weddington High School.
Added Kaitlyn Waters, a South Piedmont advisor and the career coach at Union County Early College:
“College can be expensive, but through Career & College Promise, students can take real college courses with tuition waived. It’s an incredible opportunity that makes higher education more accessible for everyone. As someone who also took advantage of dual enrollment in high school, it opens doors early and helps students build a strong foundation for their future —without the financial burden.”
South Piedmont expanded its support of CCP by adding a new career coach at Marvin Ridge High School in Waxhaw; Janet Smith has been in that position since last September. Marvin Ridge is one of the largest and most well-known high schools in Union County. The addition is aimed at strengthening outreach and advising the Marvin Ridge student population, ensuring even more students have access to college courses and career planning while still in high school.
“The most fulfilling part of being a career coach at Marvin Ridge is having one-on-one conversations with students. I enjoy helping them stay focused, productive, and engaged in planning for their future goals,” Smith said.
“Dual enrollment gives students the flexibility to complete college courses online, which is especially valuable given their busy schedules. Many are involved in extracurricular activities, have part-time jobs, or are exploring potential career paths. The ability to learn on their own time allows them to balance these commitments while getting a head start on college.”
The growth does not end in Union County, though. Patricia Johnson has been with South Piedmont Community College for 25 years and currently serves as Career Coach for Anson High School and homeschool students in Anson and Union counties, a role she has held for 3.5 years. She often shares a quote posted in her office by Art Williams: “I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy – I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it.”
Johnson said this resonates deeply with students in the Career & College Promise program who balance high school classes, college coursework, part-time jobs, sports, and other commitments.
“This quote speaks to the many demands our CCP students face — balancing high school, college courses, sports, jobs, and more. It’s not easy, but when they achieve their goals, they realize every challenge was worth it. The program also sets them up for success, whether that means pursuing a four-year degree or starting a career right after high school,” she said.
Johnson’s connection to the program is personal —her son completed his associate degree through CCP, then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree and is now pursuing a master’s degree in IT.
“Without the CCP program, none of this would have been possible,” Johnson said. “I’ve seen firsthand how this program can change lives by giving students a head start on their futures while easing the financial burden on families.”
As Career & College Promise continues to grow, South Piedmont remains committed to expanding access, strengthening support systems, and helping every high school student realize their potential. With strategic partnerships, dedicated coaches, and a clear focus on student success, the College is building a stronger bridge between high school, higher education, and the workforce.
If you have any questions about the Career College Promise, please visit: https://spcc.edu/academics/areas-of-study/high-school-options/
Contact information:
Director of Secondary Education Partnerships, Dr. Marsha Thomas: mthomas@spcc.edu
Marvin Ridge High School Career Coach Janet Smith: jsmith2@spcc.edu
Weddington High School Career Coach Jolene Brown: Jbrown@spcc.edu
Anson High School and Homeschool Career Coach Patricia Johnson: pjohnson@spcc.edu
Union County Early College Career Coach Kaitlyn Waters: kwaters@spcc.edu