WC approved to offer state college-prep ELA course
High school seniors who might otherwise face additional testing or delays entering college now have a clearer path forward with Weatherford College’s recent approval by the Texas Education Agency to offer the Texas College Preparatory English Language Arts course.
WC is one of only nine institutions statewide added through the latest round of approvals, a move that expands access to a state-recognized option for students who have not yet demonstrated college readiness in English before graduation.
The senior-level course allows students to meet college readiness standards while still in high school. Those who successfully complete it will be considered college-ready in English at WC and can enroll in credit-bearing courses without additional placement testing.
The approval also allows the college to expand partnerships with area school districts by providing the state-approved curriculum, along with training and support for instructors. Because the course is classified as college preparatory rather than dual credit, participating teachers are not required to meet college faculty credentialing standards, giving districts greater flexibility in how they offer the course.
The impact is expected to extend beyond the classroom. During the 2024–2025 academic year, 361 students enrolled at WC using an English language arts waiver. By offering the course directly through partner districts, college officials expect more students to complete high school already eligible for college-level work.
WC currently partners with more than 30 school districts across its service area through its dual credit program.
“We are excited to expand the opportunities available to our partner school districts and their students,” said Shannon Stoker, department chair of foundational education and dual credit. “This approval allows us to provide another meaningful pathway to college readiness while strengthening the partnerships that help students successfully transition from high school to Weatherford College.”
School districts interested in learning more about this new educational opportunity may email Stoker at sstoker@wc.edu for more information.