Panola College awarded $250,000 Student Success Acceleration Program 2.0 grant

Panola College has been awarded $250,000 through the Student Success Acceleration Program 2.0 grant by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, a strategic initiative aimed at removing barriers that have hindered students from continuing their education and boosting student re-enrollment and credential completion.

The funding will support the Return to Earn Initiative, which was designed to help students who have left college without earning a credential return to complete their education. The program offers personalized advising, financial assistance, academic support, and a range of essential wrap-around services to ensure students succeed and achieve their academic goals.

“Student Services is thrilled to receive this grant, as it enables the College to make a meaningful impact on student success,” said Molly Skeen, director of advising at Panola College. “With these resources, we can remove financial and logistical barriers, re-engage students who have stepped away from college, and provide them with the support they need to re-enroll and complete their credentials.”

Through the grant, the College has launched the Pregnant & Parenting Student Support Program, designed to help students balance their educational goals with family responsibilities. Beginning this semester, pregnant and parenting students enrolled in academic courses will be able to apply for financial assistance to help cover childcare and transportation expenses.

“We are excited to offer financial assistance for childcare and transportation to pregnant and parenting students, helping them navigate the unique challenges of balancing family and academic responsibilities,” continued Skeen. “The College remains committed to increasing student retention, persistence, and credential completion, reinforcing its mission to empower all students through education.”