Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland welcome Rio Salado College President Kate Smith for a compelling discussion on dual enrollment, equity in education, and the future of learning. Kate reflects on Rio Salado’s mission to meet learners where they are, from high school students to working adults and military learners across the globe. The conversation highlights the dramatic growth of dual enrollment, the confidence it builds in students, and the meaningful financial advantages it creates for families. They also explore how students can graduate from high school with a two year associate degree while still remaining eligible for freshman scholarships when they enter a university. The episode examines how higher education is adapting to rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and workforce needs, and shows how strong partnerships between K-12 and higher education create real pathways to opportunity for all learners.

Show Notes:

If you want to learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visit AmericanClassroom.Show https://americanclassroom.show/

To learn more about or take a tour of the great schools mentioned in this episode, visit Heritage Academy https://heritageacademyaz.com/ or Paul Revere Academy https://paulrevere.tech/

Sponsored by: Heritage Academy, downtown Mesa campus- www.hamesa.com

President Kate Smith Bio: https://www.riosalado.edu/about/leadership-and-administration/college-president/presidents-bio