Blue Ridge and HCPS share a rich collaborative relationship centered on student success
Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) is excited to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at celebrating and strengthening the partnerships that help our students succeed: the Community Partner Spotlight. Starting this month, HCPS will feature a different community partner each month, highlighting the vital role these organizations play in the education and well-being of our students.
To kick off the Community Partner Spotlight, HCPS is proud to recognize Blue Ridge Community College as September’s featured partner. Blue Ridge Community College has been an invaluable ally in providing students with opportunities for dual-enrollment, career and technical education, and workforce development. Their ongoing support and collaboration with HCPS have opened doors for countless students, helping them to achieve their academic and career goals.
“Our ongoing friendship with Henderson County Public Schools is a cornerstone of our commitment to local education and workforce development,” said Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood, president of Blue Ridge Community College. “Through our many collaborations – such as the Career and College Promise program, the Innovative High School’s Early College and Career Academy, and placement for apprenticeships – we’re empowering high school students to jumpstart career exploration, earn tuition-free college credit, and gain invaluable professional experience. We also welcome the school system to our campus year-round for community events, strengthening our shared mission to support student success.”
A Strong Partner in Henderson County
Since 1969, Blue Ridge Community College has supported the Western North Carolina workforce through higher education in Henderson and Transylvania counties. Today, students choose from over 200 industry-recognized degrees, diplomas, and certificates in 30 areas of study.
With the vision of “transforming lives through the power of learning,” Blue Ridge provides HCPS high school students with numerous opportunities to earn tuition-free college credit and prepare for careers after graduation. Foremost, Blue Ridge provides dual-enrollment pathways through the Career and College Promise (CCP) program. These range from single college courses to detailed high school pathways culminating in an associate degree or other credential, such as those offered through the Innovative High School’s Early College or Career Academy, which is located on the Blue Ridge campus. HCPS students also have the opportunity to earn a Blue Ridge Scholar cord to be worn during their high school graduation. Credit earned can be applied toward a degree or credential at Blue Ridge, or toward bachelor’s degree programs at numerous well-respected four-year institutions in North Carolina, including those with guaranteed admission transfer agreements.
To ensure HCPS students are well-prepared for future careers and higher education, Blue Ridge’s Student Services team offers several key supports. Each high school has a dedicated Career Coach to guide students, especially those dual-enrolled, in staying on track with their goals and navigating college admissions. The Financial Aid team hosts events throughout the year to help families understand scholarships, FAFSA, and the Next NC Scholarship, which provides non-repayable funds to over half of Blue Ridge applicants. Additionally, Blue Ridge’s Accessibility Services staff offer accommodations for current students and help others transition to college life at Blue Ridge.
“The long held partnership we have with Blue Ridge Community College continues to be essential in our ability to provide students with a relevant educational experience. By taking a collaborative approach, we have been able to expand opportunities, add programs, and give the community a great return on investment,” said HCPS Superintendent Mark Garrett. “Every single HCPS student benefits from the collaborations we have with Blue Ridge Community College and we are excited to see what the future brings.”
As education partners, Blue Ridge frequently welcomes HCPS employees and families to campus, hosting annual all-county band performances, scholar recognition banquets, and the ‘Listos!’ college and career readiness day.
For families interested in dual-enrollment or other Blue Ridge programs, information is available at www.blueridge.edu/ccp and www.blueridge.edu/admissions.
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About Henderson County Public Schools
About Henderson County Public Schools: Henderson County Public Schools is comprised of four school districts (East, Hendersonville, North, and West). We have a total of 23 schools: 13 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 4 high schools, 1 career academy, and 1 early college high school. The student population has grown to over 12,500. Our teaching staff is over 900. With more than 2,000 employees, Henderson County Public Schools is the largest employer in Henderson County. Our Mission: Henderson County Public Schools is committed to providing all students the opportunity to learn and the encouragement to succeed in a safe environment. We will honor the individual and nurture the potential of all children. Learn more at: https://www.HCPSNC.org/
About Blue Ridge Community College
About Blue Ridge Community College: Blue Ridge Community College is a two-year, post-secondary institution that elevates the educational experience to prepare students for 21st-century success in the workplace or at four-year colleges and universities. Providing real-life, affordable, and accessible education, the College offers more than 200 degrees, diplomas, and certificates; convenient online courses; and fast-tracked job training. Our Mission: Blue Ridge Community College empowers individuals with knowledge and skills to enrich our communities and build a competitive workforce. Learn more at: blueridge.edu.