BRTC President Wayne Hatcher and Mayor David Freeman of Rector have signed an agreement that will bring new educational opportunities to the Clay County community, beginning July 1. Described as a pilot project, the initiative provides for BRTC to provide educational and training opportunities that consist of Corporate and Community classes, as well as college transfer classes, through the Northeast Arkansas Innovative Training Center’s facility on Main Street in downtown Rector. Some classes are also scheduled to be held at Rector High School, due to the need for a science lab.
“We are very excited and hopeful about this venture,” said Dr. Hatcher. “Rector is a progressive community in our service area with a good understanding of the importance of educational opportunities for people of all ages. We think this partnership is a step toward making that happen.”
Already on schedule are eight college classes, including developmental classes in math, reading, and English, as well as credit classes in Biological Science and Lab, Freshman English I, Fine Arts Musical, World Civilization to 1660, and Introduction to Psychology. As with all BRTC classes, enrollment must be sufficient to justify the class.
“Our ability to continue this beyond the Fall and Spring semesters will depend on the participation of the people of Rector and surrounding communities,” Dr. Hatcher added. “We are hoping this new partnership will reach three groups of prospective students: those people who for whatever reason have not been able to begin their studies in higher education, those in the area who may find this location more convenient and thus increase the likelihood they will enroll, and area high school students who can get a jump start on college credits. “
Director of Corporate and Community Education Patti Blaxton is also working to develop a schedule of non-credit classes of interest through this partnership. All those with questions or suggestions regarding credit classes or with interest in teaching Corporate and Community classes should contact Blaxton at 870-248-4000, EXT 4181.