Julia du Plooy [Courtesy photo]

As Chairwoman of the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Board of Trustees, and as a Hendry County resident, I’ve seen firsthand how education transforms communities. Nowhere is that clearer than in the success of FSW’s early college programs right here in Hendry and Glades counties.

Through a partnership with the Hendry County School Board, local high school students can earn college credits, and in many cases, complete an Associate in Arts (AA) degree before graduation. Last year, 50 Hendry County students graduated with either an AA or Career Certificate of Completion (CCC). Of those, 34 came from Clewiston High School’s Early College program and 16 from LaBelle High School.

That’s 50 students entering adulthood already two steps ahead.

Enrollment continues to grow. This fall, 189 Hendry County students are registered in FSW programs: 97 from LaBelle High, 84 from Clewiston High, four from Clewiston Christian (up from just one last year), and four from Ahfachkee School on the Seminole Indian Reservation, participating for the first time. These numbers show families are seizing the opportunity—and our community is stronger for it.

The results are lasting. In 2024, 90% of FSW graduates remained in Florida, strengthening our workforce and communities. Many go on to Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) through Destination FGCU, a program that ensures a smooth transfer from FSW to FGCU.

FSW is also aligning directly with Hendry County’s economic needs. Agriculture is the backbone of our region, and this year FSW will launch an Associate in Science degree in Engineering Technology with a specialization in Agricultural Technology at its Hendry County site. Developed with local stakeholders, this program will prepare students with advanced technical skills while fueling the industry that powers our county.

There’s a misconception that early college is only for a select few. In truth, it’s accessible to motivated students across Hendry and Glades counties, saving families thousands of dollars while giving students a confident head start.

When our students succeed, Hendry County succeeds. By investing in FSW’s early college and workforce programs, we are building the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals who will keep our community strong.