Families looking for ways to reduce the cost of a college education have more options than many realize. Dayton ISD Administrator Roxie Asbill shared several programs with members of the Dayton Rotary Club that allow students to earn college credit before graduating from high school, potentially saving families thousands of dollars in tuition.
Rotarian Livia Callahan introduced Asbill, who explained that Dayton ISD’s longstanding partnership with Lee College, along with relationships with other universities, has enabled students to earn college credit while still in high school while helping families reduce the cost of higher education.
The first program Asbill discussed is called FAST (Financial Aid for Swift Transfer). Asbill explained, “The Texas Administrative Code provides funding to participating public institutions. For DISD, that is Lee College, which can offer dual credit courses at no cost to economically disadvantaged students. Colleges can choose whether to participate, and we are grateful that Lee College participates in this program.”
Asbill then described how the FAST program functions. A student can enroll in Lee College dual credit courses during high school and, if they are eligible for the free or reduced lunch program, the courses are provided at no charge. DHS offers several dual credit courses, and taking six of these courses can provide students with 18 college hours, translating into significant savings for families.
Asbill compared the cost of earning 18 college credit hours at Texas A&M University and The University of Texas at Austin. At approximately $308 per credit hour at Texas A&M and $542 per credit hour at UT, students could save an estimated $5,544 and $9,756, respectively, by earning those credits before graduating from high school.
The presentation also highlighted how students can save thousands of dollars by earning college credits through Lee College, Advanced Placement (AP) courses and OnRamps, a dual-enrollment program developed with The University of Texas at Austin. These programs enable students to complete college coursework while still in high school, shortening the time required to earn a degree and reducing overall educational expenses.
In addition to traditional college pathways, Asbill emphasized the increasing demand for skilled trades and technical careers. She highlighted certification programs in fields such as construction, process technology, welding, cosmetology, engineering technology, automotive technology, broadcasting and journalism. The presentation included examples of competitive starting salaries in many of these professions, demonstrating that technical certifications can lead to rewarding and financially stable careers.
Another key topic was educational assistance available for students who have experienced foster care. Asbill explained that eligible students may qualify for tuition and mandatory fee waivers at Texas public colleges and universities through state-supported programs, providing an additional pathway to higher education without significant financial barriers.
President Elizabeth Robertson thanked Asbill for an engaging and practical presentation and reminded attendees that Rotary has a long-standing commitment to investing in the next generation through scholarships, leadership development and educational opportunities.
“Every person has the ability to encourage a young person to dream bigger, plan earlier, and make choices that will shape their future,” Robertson said. “Rotary is not only about serving our community today, but about preparing tomorrow’s leaders.”
The meeting concluded with members discussing ways the Rotary Club of Dayton can further support local students through scholarships, mentoring and partnerships with area schools.
The Rotary Club of Dayton meets every Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Dayton Community Center. Community members interested in learning more about Rotary or attending a meeting are welcome.