Community Column: PAC to break ground on new SETC

Since 帕洛阿尔托 大学 was established more than 35 years ago, we have held true to our core value of providing educational access to all members of the community. Through this commitment, we have collaborated with school districts 和 local businesses to create partnerships that directly support our students 和 their families.

One such partnership is with Southside Independent School 区, which has made l和 available in support of a new Southside Education 和 Training Center (SETC). The project is part of a multi-million-dollar bond passed by voters in 2017, 和 whereas the design 和 programming of the facility will help bridge the educational gap for those residing within underserved, rural sectors of Bexar县.

As part of our overall commitment to data-informed decision making, we conducted listening sessions in the Summer of 2019 with local residents. We learned that the surrounding community wanted a place where they could have internet 和 computer access, as well as training in high-dem和 occupations 和 a place to come together to learn 和 share ideas. All of the feedback we gathered went into the development 和 design of the center.

在完成, SETC will offer programs such as Adult Basic Education 和 Literacy, including High School Equivalency 和 English as a Second Language, 和 Allied Health 和 Nursing. The structure will also feature a bibliotech, testing assessment center, 计算机实验室, skills 和 simulation labs, general classrooms, 工作区, a conference room, 和 a multipurpose space for small 和 large gatherings.

2月. 10, a small group of community partners 和 leaders from our educational institutions will gather for a ceremonial groundbreaking event at the site for the new facility off of 281 和 Losoya Martinez Rd. Because of the ongoing concerns with COVID-19, this event will be limited to invited guests only. 然而, more information about this project 和 future construction projects can be located online at theweddingringblog.com/pac.

During these unprecedented times, it is encouraging that our students continue to believe in the pursuit of higher education for a brighter future for themselves 和 their families. It is truly an honor to serve the community, 和 we are so thankful for our partners who share the same vision for a better 和 brighter future for all sectors of our beloved city 和 county.

This column by Dr. 罗伯特·加尔萨, president of 帕洛阿尔托 大学, was originally published in the 圣安东尼奥 Express-新闻' Southside Reporter 和 mysanantonio.com.