Covering Louisiana
LSUA takes over operation of learning center
Posted: Aug 10, 2012 10:04 AM by AP
ALEXANDRIA, La. (AP) - Louisiana State University at Alexandria has taken over operation of the Learning Center of Rapides Parish.
The Town Talk reports the Learning Center partners with colleges and universities to offer classes and degree programs at the center located at England Airpark.
LSUA signed a three-year agreement to run the Learning Center, taking over from the Louisiana Board of Regents, which began operating the learning center at England Airpark in 2003. LSUA's contract took effect July 1.
"The Board of Regents believes the strongest management strategy for the Learning Center is to empower those in the local community who best understand the region's educational needs," Commissioner of Higher Education Jim Purcell said in a statement.
This fall, the Learning Center will partner with Bossier Parish Community College, Central Louisiana Technical College, Louisiana State University, Louisiana State University at Eunice, Northwestern State University, Texas Wesleyan University and Upper Iowa University.
LSUA will coordinate the course offerings and contract with the center's partner institutions. LSUA also plans to expand program offerings by working with other prospective partner institutions.
"Our goal is to continue to grow and continue to expand our services," said Heather Poole, executive director and dean of the Learning Center.
Learning Center personnel, previously Board of Regents employees, will continue to operate the facility as LSUA employees. The facility will continue its services.
The Learning Center serves students as well as businesses that use the center for training or other services. Poole wants to expand programs for students and businesses and offer classes for fun -- such as culinary classes or social networking for seniors.
About 1,200 students were enrolled at the Learning Center last fall, a number that includes students who cross-enroll and are counted more than once.
KATC.com is Social!
KATC Videos
Comments