DuBOIS — DuBois Area High School students will soon have more opportunities to get ahead in college and careers, thanks to new programs and partnerships highlighted by Superintendent Wendy Benton at last Thursday’s board meeting.
College credit
Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, Benton said DAHS students can choose from 21 Advanced Placement, accelerated, and honors-level courses that allow them to earn both high school and college credits. The expansion comes through an enhanced partnership with Pitt-Bradford and Mount Aloysius College.
For students, the benefits go beyond academics. Benton said the program helps families save money on tuition while giving students early experience with time management, leadership, and critical thinking.
Teachers across departments will be offering the courses, with counselors guiding students through the enrollment process and ensuring all requirements are met. Benton emphasized that their coordination has been “instrumental” in making the program a success.
The high school faculty leading the program includes: Micah Wolfe, Leanne Fuller, Dorothea Hackett, Kenneth Evans, Heidi Shindledecker, David Martin, Brad Sweet, Chris Taylor, Mandi Bell, Rob Bowser, TJ Wingard, Rob Burns, and Mike Gressler.
College in
the Classroom
Benton also expressed sincere gratitude to the district’s “dedicated” high school counselors for their outstanding coordination and support in providing College in the Classroom opportunities for students.
“Their commitment to guiding students through the enrollment process, collaborating with college partners, and ensuring all academic requirements are met has been instrumental in making these programs a success,” said Benton. “Thanks to their efforts, our students are gaining valuable college experience and earning credits that will serve them well in their future educational journeys. Their hard work and advocacy truly make a difference, and we are deeply appreciative of all that you do.”
Training future healthcare workers
Another new opportunity is already underway for students interested in healthcare. On Aug. 25, the district, in collaboration with Penn Highlands Healthcare and Penn Highlands DuBois, launched a Patient Care Assistant (PCA) Student Course.
The six-week program gives students hands-on training alongside Clinical Nurse Educators at Penn Highlands DuBois, while paying them $13.36 per hour. Students who complete the program may qualify for PCA positions at the hospital, giving them a direct entry point into the healthcare field.
“This program allows students to ‘earn while they learn,’ while building the skills that are in high demand in our region,” Benton said.
To qualify, students must be at least 16, enrolled in high school, and show interest in patient care and teamwork. Early feedback from students and staff has been enthusiastic, with many describing it as a meaningful connection between classroom learning and real-world careers, she said.
Connecting with employers and colleges
Students will also get a chance to meet potential future employers and colleges at the annual DAHS College and Career Fair, set for Tuesday, Oct. 7.
Local businesses, colleges, and first responders will be on hand to share information about career pathways and post-secondary opportunities. Participants already include the U.S. military branches, Pennsylvania State Police, Penn State University, IUP, Mount Aloysius College, S&T Bank, Penn Highlands Healthcare, Gasbarre Products Inc., and several other regional organizations. The district is still accepting interest from local businesses, colleges, education partners and community providers.
Benton encouraged students to take advantage of the event, calling it “an excellent opportunity to begin shaping their future.”