NWC seeks further partnerships with BHC schools

Northwest College President Lisa Watson, Training and Development Program Coordinator Christi Greaham and Interim Dean of Extended Campus and Workforce Ty Flock joined Big Horn County Citizens for Economic Development at their Feb. 18 meeting with reports that the college will look to further partner with local school districts. 

The meeting came as NWC received a report from Hanover Research, which gave the college insight into what potential program offerings may benefit the area. Flock has been at the head of a campaign to connect the college, which already offers concurrent and dual enrollment options in Big Horn Basin high schools, with all local school districts. In Greybull, Flock said Superintendent Mark Fritz pitched a CDL program for high school students. Cowley requested further CTE programs, and all the schools NWC spoke with wanted concurrent enrollment courses. 

Concurrent enrollment would require high school teachers receive certification to teach college-level courses. March 2, the college plans to host a superintendent round table to discuss possibilities. 

Greham reported the college is providing more CTE certificates and courses: heavy equipment operations and CDLs and courses like construction basics and small engine repair. Healthcare programs for local students to receive nursing certificates were also discussed. 

OTHER NEWS:

Austin Triplett and Jake Thiel were approved as BCED board members, leaving one vacancy. 

President Bill Hayes reported he had traveled to Cheyenne and received a workforce housing update. Similar to Greybull’s Bright Block Initiative, Upton, Thermopolis and Newcastle are also looking to increase housing opportunities in their communities. 

Board member Danae Bales reported she would attend Big Horn County School District No. 4’s strategic planning meeting on March 2.