by Nicole Farrell, senior editor
Being both a high school student and a college student at the same time is possible, without even leaving Consol.
The opportunity presents itself in the form of dual credit classes, such as English 1301 and 1302, which is a composition and rhetoric course, Economics 2301 and Government 2305.
“Dual classes are open to students who may not have even considered college,” English 1301 and 1302 instructor Mike Williams said.
Williams teaches the dual class through Blinn, but is also employed full-time at Consol. This year, he teaches journalism and advises the newspaper staff, but has taught both junior and senior level AP level English as well.
Williams was first introduced to the program through his first teaching job at Bryan High School. Because he had earned his masters’ degree in English, he was qualified for the dual instructing position and was introduced to the department head at Blinn before applying for the position.
After moving to Consol, he was approached by both the superintendent and then-principal about the possibility of executing dual classes in College Station.
Dual classes were opened to seniors in both English and the two social studies credits required for graduation, economics and government.
Justin Butler is an instructor at Blinn who comes to Consol to teach Economics 2301, commuting from Cypress for the 7:45 am class on Tuesdays and Thursdays here at Consol and also his classes at Blinn.
Having graduated from Consol himself in 2000, he enjoys the familiarity and opportunity.
“I think it’s a unique experience that I get to teach at the same high school where I once roamed the hallways as a student,” Butler said.
In addition to teaching here, he has also taught at Rudder and Navasota High. Butler describes the importance of treating his students like adults and praises his high school students for the quality of their work and applied effort.
“I tell them it will be challenging,” Butler said, “But I know they can do it.”
Butler also emphasizes a more “direct yet laid back approach” to allow his students to relax and succeed. For example, students address him by his first name.
He connects with students through this mature approach, similar to Williams.
Williams does spend more time with his students, holding class all five days a week although Blinn only requires Monday, Wednesday and Friday for instruction.
“On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I slip in more senior level English and TEKS material,” Williams said. “It has no effect on their Blinn grade, but I try to provide relevant and helpful assignments that students across all levels do, such as resumes and college essays.”
Because he sees his students all week long, Williams describes closer personal relationships with his students.
“It really helps them in the long run,” he said. “It increases their comfort level with the course and with the material. They can ask questions.”
Both instructors teach their high school students and college students the same, as adults with responsibilities.
“High school students are usually my best students,” Butler said. “For the most part, I never have to worry they will not be able to get the job done. Dual credit students are the hardworking students.”
