Officials from Central Texas College, who joined administrators from several universities that plan to work in partnership with LCHEC, provide information about their courses. PHOTO BY DAVID LOWE Just a few years ago, the classrooms hosted dissections and science experiments. Now, the former Lampasas Middle School offers a place where students ultimately may earn college degrees -- without having to leave town.

Lampasans joined college and university administrators and several government officials Thursday at the former middle school for a tour of the Lampasas County Higher Education Center. A multiinstitutional teaching center, LCHEC is increasing the number of dual-credit classes offered in Lampasas, which will allow students to earn college credits before they graduate from high school. Courses are open to adults as well, and planning is ongoing both for vocational training and for advanced degree paths at LCHEC.

During the recent open house, representatives of Central Texas College, Texas A & M University- Central Texas, Texas Tech University and Concordia University offered information about the academic programs their institutions offer and about plans for partnerships with LCHEC. LCHEC registration continues through Aug. 27.

A more detailed story about programs offered at LCHEC, with comments from campus chief operations officer Dr. S. Chuck McCarter, will be featured in a future edition of the Dispatch Record.