Kalamazoo Times

Western Michigan University (WMU) and Kalamazoo Public Schools (KPS) have announced a new dual enrollment partnership, allowing KPS students to take advanced Spanish courses at minimal cost. This initiative aims to provide students with the opportunity to earn college credits in Spanish while still in high school.

"We are thrilled to offer this partnership to KPS students, helping them gain valuable college experience while expanding their language skills," stated Dr. Jason Glass, associate vice president for teaching and learning at WMU. He emphasized that the program aligns with WMU's mission of fostering equitable access to education.

Beginning in fall 2025, KPS students will be able to enroll in WMU's dual-enrollment Spanish courses directly on their high school campus. This approach is designed to facilitate seamless access to higher education opportunities.

Dr. Darrin Slade, superintendent of Kalamazoo Public Schools, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "The partnership between Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Public Schools will expand learning opportunities for our students, allowing them to challenge themselves and gain exposure to college life."

The program allows eligible students to work towards the equivalent of a Spanish minor at WMU by the time they graduate from high school. During the 2024-25 academic year, these dual-enrollment courses will be available on WMU's Kalamazoo campus.

Dr. Pablo Pastrana-Pérez, chair and associate professor of Spanish at WMU, commented on the initiative: "We look forward to providing KPS students with an engaging, university-level experience in Spanish that not only challenges them academically but also gives them a head start on their future careers."

Wessam Abdelaziz, coordinator of English as a Second Language and World Languages for KPS, highlighted the program's role in promoting equity and opportunity: "For years, financial costs have limited students’ access to advanced Spanish courses, but now... we are leveling the playing field."

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to support bilingual education and prepare students for future academic and career success.