2 Free college tuition program
expands impact
More Garland ISD students will have an opportunity to
receive a free college education thanks to an expansion
of the Dallas County Promise program. North Garland
and South Garland high schools were invited to join
Lakeview Centennial High School as Promise campuses in
2018-19.
“We are extremely excited to offer our students the
opportunity to continue their educational goals without
the worry of funding,” said North Garland Principal
Glenda Williams. “Dallas County Promise will open doors
to our students that may have previously been shut.”
As a Dallas County Community College District
(DCCCD) Foundation initiative, it aims to increase college
completion and produce a trained workforce.
“
We hope that our students and
families see a limitless future, where
students can aspire to be more than
they ever thought possible.
”
If students accomplish three steps by set deadlines,
they will receive tuition, advising, and career pathway
guidance. Dallas County Promise covers up to 60 DCCCD
credit hours and opens the doors to transfer scholarships
to The University of North Texas at Dallas and Southern
Methodist University.
LCHS was one of just 31 area high schools selected
to debut the program in 2017-18, resulting in many
successes. Ninety-four percent of Lakeview seniors
connected
completed the first step by submitting their Dallas
County Promise pledge. Nearly 70 percent then
completed the FAFSA or TASFA, and 61 percent enrolled
in postsecondary institutions, finalizing steps two
and three.
2018 LCHS grad Andreina Luna took advantage of the
program, fulfilling her dream of attending college.
“Once senior year started, I was stressed over what
college to go to and how I was going to pay it,” she said.
“My parents didn’t have the opportunity to go to college
or even finish high school. Thanks to Dallas County
Promise, I will be able to attend the college of my choice
with no debt to pay. I will continue to make my parents
proud and make their struggles worth something.”
North and South are hoping their students can share
Luna’s experience during their first year as Promise
schools.
“We hope that our students and families see a limitless
future, where students can aspire to be more than they
ever thought possible,” Williams stated. “Our community
will gain skilled and educated citizens with a sense of
purpose and commitment to society. We have received
an amazing gift through Dallas County Promise and look
forward to building great momentum.”
Learn more about this life-changing opportunity at
DallasCountyPromise.org.