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Dual credit courses at Lincoln Trail College continued to provide significant financial and academic benefits for area high school students during the Fall 2025 semester, with more than 170 students earning college credit and saving thousands of dollars in tuition and fees.
Students from four Crawford County high schools enrolled in dual credit classes through Lincoln Trail College, allowing them to earn college credit while still in high school. In total, students completed 366 dual credit classes during the semester.
Robinson High School had the largest participation, with 127 students taking 257 classes and saving a combined $30,135 in tuition and fees. Palestine High School saw 18 students enroll in 30 classes, resulting in $5,434 in savings. Hutsonville High School had 17 students take 43 classes, saving $4,505, while 14 students from Oblong High School completed 36 classes and saved $7,192.
Those savings were made possible through support from the United Way of Crawford County, which covers the cost of tuition and fees for local dual credit students thanks to a donation from Hershey.
“Because of the United Way and Hershey’s generosity, students are able to focus on learning without worrying about the financial burden that often comes with college courses,” said Erin Volk, director of dual credit at Lincoln Trail College. “This support makes a real difference for families and helps students get a head start on their college education.”
Dual credit courses allow high school students to experience college-level coursework, build confidence, and shorten the time it takes to complete a degree after graduation. Volk said the program also helps students explore career pathways earlier and make more informed decisions about their futures.
“Dual credit gives students momentum before they ever step onto a college campus,” Volk said. “They gain college experience and earn transferable credit that makes the transition to college smoother and more affordable.”
Lincoln Trail College continues to work closely with area high schools to expand dual credit opportunities and ensure courses align with both high school graduation requirements and college degree pathways. Volk says partnerships like the one with the United Way are critical to keeping the program accessible and impactful for local students.
