Living in Sierra Vista confers many benefits. One we like addresses the needs of our college-bound residents — the Manvel High School dual degree program.

Sierra Vista is zoned to the highly regarded Alvin Independent School District and Manvel High School. The school is considered one of the top 50 standout high schools in the Houston area by Niche. While the school offers an assortment of AP and honors courses, it also offers students the opportunity to enroll in college classes at Alvin Community College. Students can even earn an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies.

Students enrolled in the program receive high school and college credit. Most of the classes are taught at Manvel High so there is no need for students to drive to the college. Students are also able to attend classes on the ACC campus.

There are opportunities for students not bound for college to earn dual credit, as well. A technical enrollment program offers highly specialized classes for students ready to enter the workforce. These classes won’t always transfer to state universities but can be applied toward an Associate of Applied Science degree.

Why sign up for dual enrollment? Dual enrollment classes save time, fulfill requirements for the Texas High School Distinguished Achievement Plan, transfer to most Texas public universities with a grade C or higher and they save money. In general, students that take dual enrollment courses can save up to 75 percent off the cost of their tuition.

Before enrolling in the program, parents and teens should consider if it is right for them. Taking dual enrollment classes requires students to be highly motivated, goal-oriented and detail-oriented. They also must understand that a college-level course may require more work and that these courses do become part of their permanent transcripts.

We are proud of all Sierra Vista students who are enrolled in the program and happy that living here can offer them opportunities to easily meet their education goals.