Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon is exploring the possibility of opening a satellite facility in Rock Rapids.
NCC President Dr. John Hartog says the proposed site would primarily serve high school students through expanded dual-enrollment opportunities as the college seeks grant funding to help make it a reality.
The four partner districts include the three high schools in Lyon County — Central Lyon, George-Little Rock, and West Lyon — along with Sibley-Ocheyedan. Hartog says that while classes would initially be hosted at Central Lyon, the long-term goal is a dedicated facility in Rock Rapids.
At the core of the Regional Center would be Career Academies — targeted career pathway programs aligned to local workforce needs — according to Hartog.
These opportunities, he says, would enable students to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously, positioning them for advanced education or career success after graduation.
Dr. Hartog says career pathways currently under consideration include agriculture — with a private pesticide applicator credential — business with Microsoft Office certification, education with para-educator certification, and healthcare programming.
This story is courtesy of fellow Community First Broadcasting station KIWA
