Panola College awarded $298,861 from the Texas Workforce Commission to expand dual credit healthcare training

Panola College is proud to announce that it has been selected by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to receive a $298,861.29 Skills Development Fund Dual Credit Healthcare grant. This investment is already expanding healthcare training opportunities for high school students across East Texas by funding dual credit Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Patient Care Technician (PCT) programs.

Students began benefiting from the grant-funded training during the current fall semester, with enrollment underway across 12 partner Independent School Districts: Beckville, Carthage, Center, Elysian Fields, Harleton, Jefferson, Joaquin, Marshall, Martinsville, Shelbyville, Tatum, and Tenaha. The funding covers tuition and fees, scrubs, test preparation materials, certification exam fees, and essential wraparound services. Eligible expenses also include instructor costs, curriculum development, and proctoring for required state credentialing exams.

This grant allows dual credit students to earn industry-recognized healthcare certifications while still in high school, placing them on a direct path to immediate employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities throughout the region. It also builds a strong foundation for students interested in continuing their education in nursing or allied health fields after graduation.

Whitney McBee, Director of Workforce and Continuing Education at Panola College, highlighted the transformative impact of this opportunity. She said, “This funding removes financial barriers for students and gives them access to career-launching credentials that can change the trajectory of their lives. By earning CNA and PCT certifications in high school, students gain real workforce skills, confidence, and the ability to step directly into essential healthcare roles. We are grateful for the Texas Workforce Commission’s investment in our communities and our future healthcare workforce.”

Training funded through the grant is currently being delivered by Panola College’s Workforce and Continuing Education department, in close collaboration with participating school districts. By offering these programs at no cost, Panola College is giving students valuable experience and qualifications while helping meet the growing workforce needs of healthcare providers across East Texas.

For more information about Panola College’s dual credit healthcare programs or the Texas Workforce Commission Skills Development Fund, please contact Panola College Workforce and Continuing Education.