Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Seacoast Collegiate High School broke ground Monday on a new Dual Enrollment and Workforce Development Center, in what the two schools called a partnership aimed at transforming educational opportunities in Walton County.
- The highly anticipated groundbreaking ceremony was held at Seacoast High School, with a reception following at North Beach Social.
The strategic partnership between NWFSC and Seacoast Collegiate High School reflects a shared commitment to provide students with pathways blending high school and college coursework with career skills, according to officials from both schools. The center will give students an educational experience redefining possibilities for high schoolers, they said.
“This groundbreaking ceremony marked a pivotal moment in education in Northwest Florida,” said NWFSC President Dr. Devin Stephenson. “This collaboration will stand as a testament to the innovative spirit of both institutions. Collectively, we are at the forefront of revolutionizing a model that will transform the educational landscape, equip students for the challenges of the current workforce, and empower the next generation with enhanced academic and career pathways.”
The new facility will include three buildings, provide space for Seacoast and NWFSC classrooms, and have shared space for workforce development, continuing education and career preparedness instruction.
Seacoast’s capital campaign goal for the expansion is $30 million. In 2023, Florida legislators appropriated $9 million for the project. Baseball Hall of Famer Tom Glavine and his wife Chris contributed $1 million.
Seacoast is open to all Walton County residents. The project is slated for completion in 2025.
