Sen. Gordon Applauds Recent State Investment in Area Public Schools, Dual Credit Programs
October 23, 2023

CT Dept. of Education awards grants to four towns in the 35th State Senate District to expand dual credit programs in public schools.
State Sen. Jeff Gordon (R-Woodstock), member of the Appropriations Committee including the Elementary & Secondary Education Subcommittee, applauded recent state grant awards from the Department of Education to four towns in the 35th State Senate District State to expand dual credit programs in the public schools:
- Coventry Public Schools: $20,000
- The Woodstock Academy: $48,830
- Thompson Public Schools: $10,000
- Vernon Public Schools: $40,000
He said, “These programs provide wonderful opportunities to local students to earn college credits while still in high school. This enhances the possibilities for the ongoing development of skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the future. Investing wisely in public school programs is one of the important things that I support as a state senator. Thank you to the state for doing so when it comes to these dual credit programs in our schools. Also, thank you to the schools’ leadership for submitting the grant applications and working to make these programs a success for the kids.”
Coventry Public Schools will continue current programs in English and personal finance with the University of Bridgeport and expand into new programs of math precalculus, general physics, and psychology. A new partnership with Southern Connecticut State University would include microbiology, human anatomy, and physiology. A new partnership with Sacred Heart University would include biology heredity and society. Expansion of current pathways is planned for business management and administration, finance, health science, and science/technology/engineering/math (STEM).
The Woodstock Academy will expand course offerings at Eastern Connecticut State University, develop new offerings at Quinebaug Valley Community College and Eastern Connecticut State University, and offer meetings for students and parents to learn more about the dual credit programs.
Thompson Public Schools will expand course offerings with Quinebaug Valley Community College for a medical science and human services pathway, and create a new culinary arts pathway.
Vernon Public Schools will expand offerings with The University of Connecticut and Eastern Connecticut State University, and possibly with the University of Bridgeport, for programs in business, family and consumer services, fine arts, science, social studies, and world languages. A new program opportunity for math is anticipated. Helping teachers obtain certification for dual program instruction is also planned.
To learn more about dual credit programs, click here.