Sara Sutton, Interim President, emphasizes this philosophy. “We are very dedicated to providing quality education at a low cost in our community and surrounding areas,” she states, noting that FSCC’s reach extends far beyond regional boundaries. She highlights that the college’s broad appeal stems from a robust mix of core academic courses and specialized vocational and technical programs. The array of programs at FSCC demonstrates a practical and diverse approach to education. Sutton points out, “Some of our popular programs are the John Deere and our agriculture programs.Those two are unique to our campus.”The curriculum continues beyond there. FSCC also offers a variety of other fields, such as nursing, cosmetology, and even a Harley Davidson program, alongside the essential science, math, and English courses that build a comprehensive educational experience. This mix shows FSCC’s ability to cater to varied interests and career aspirations, creating pathways that resonate with many students. When it comes to student demographics, the campus thrives with diversity. Dale Griffiths, a John Deere Instructor, provides insight into how FSCC accommodates students at different stages of life and career. “I deal with both traditional right-outof-high-school students plus several non-traditional students,” he explains. According to him, these non-traditional learners often embark on second career paths, some after years of pursuing different industries.“I’ve actually had non-traditional students making a complete career switch in their 30s, even older,” he shares, highlighting the inclusive and adaptable nature of the program. CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY AND SPECIALIZED TRAINING Fort Scott Community College’s reputation for progressive, specialized programs is evident in its deep partnership with John Deere and other industry-leading initiatives. FSCC leverages these collaborations to teach students practical, job-ready skills that align with industry standards. Griffiths says, “We’re under the AG umbrella, but we’re firmly on the CTE (Career and Technical Education) and technology side.” This dual focus on agriculture and technology positions FSCC uniquely as one of just 99 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 12 FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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