By Rupert Howell
School administrators focused on graduation paths that give students not choosing to attend four-year universities different options while Superintendent Tim Wilder announced South Panola plans to drastically increase dual-enrollment options where high school students can receive college course level credits.

Wilder announced the options Tuesday to the board of trustees during February’s monthly meeting of the South Panola District Board of Trustees.

“We really need to do more in advanced placement courses and more dual enrollment courses,” Wilder told trustees.

Trustee board member Lygunnah Bean said, “I’m excited about the options,” after Assistant Superintendent Charles Beene told trustees that approximately 40 students could possibly opt out and graduate.

Those graduates could receive a diploma and “march” just like other graduates, but  would be limited by higher education options.

Students who opt out of the current 24 Carnegie Unit pathway now have additional paths to graduation and advanced students who wish to graduate early, now have a road map to the Early Exit Diploma Option administrators explained.

Assistant Superintendent Beene told trustees that a letter had been mailed to parents Wednesday of this week explaining graduation options.