The Pinellas Board of County Commissioners hosted a work session meeting on Jan 15 and invited SPC President Tonjua Williams to share about the Educational Ecosystem and how it will benefit the residents of Pinellas County. The Educational Ecosystem is a partnership between SPC, the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP) and Pinellas County Schools that will:
- Clarify career and educational options
- Guides students to choose and enroll in an academic and career pathway
- Support students to complete their degree
- Track students’ progress along the path
“Working together with USFSP and Pinellas County Schools helps our communities to thrive and meets the needs of our local businesses,” Williams said.
One of the benefits to the partnership is students can earn credentials that will transfer between the educational institutions, saving them time and money. Students can increase their educational attainment, earn a livable wage and get a better job, while impacting the overall economic growth of Pinellas County.
In addition to the Educational Ecosystem, President Williams shared how SPC is expanding their short-term training so students can enter the workforce sooner. Another initiative focus is to close the achievement gap among minority students.
County commissioners expressed their gratitude toward SPC and shared ideas on how the county could partner with the college’s initiatives.