September 3, 2024 – Santa Fe College is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its High School Dual Enrollment (HSDE) program, a pioneering initiative that has supported thousands of students since 1974.
The celebration will be held on Monday, Sept. 30, from 2 to 3 p.m. in R-001 (Northwest Campus). It will feature remarks, refreshments and reflections on the program’s impact. The SF community, local K-12 partners, and former students and families are invited to attend.
The HSDE program was established through an articulation agreement between the School Board of Alachua County and Santa Fe College’s Board of Trustees. It allows high school students to earn college credits while completing their high school education, giving them an early start on academic and career goals.
Launched as a Career and Technical program for a few dozen Alachua County high school seniors, the program now serves over 1,000 students annually from 12 surrounding school districts, 25 private schools, and more than 100 homeschool students, ranging from sixth through 12th grades.
In Spring 2024, 477 seniors participated in the program, with graduates heading to over 100 different colleges and universities, joining the military, or entering the local workforce. Collectively, these students earned 71 Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degrees and certificates, along with 16,403 college credits. The program has also saved students and their families more than $2 million in tuition, textbooks and materials.
“As one of the oldest programs in the country,” Jen Homard, SF’s Executive Director of Secondary Programs said, “SF has helped more than 30,000 students begin their collegiate career, whether it be on an academic or career technical pathway. The savings to the students and their families, as well as guidance provided by the program in navigating the college experience, is invaluable.”
With the potential to save up to $7,000 in tuition and fees, dual enrollment allows students to fast-track their education and enter their chosen fields sooner.
For more information about the program, visit sfcollege.edu/HSDE or call 352-395-5490.