Galveston College’s Dual Credit program named Joseph Batiste, a 17-year-old junior at Ball High School, and Kaitlin Buhler, Environmental Science teacher at BHS, as recipients of the Spring 2025 Outstanding Dual Credit Student and Faculty awards.

“We are incredibly proud of Joseph and Ms. Buhler for their dedication and excellence in our Dual Credit program,” said GC Director of Educational Services, Elvia Segura. “Dual Credit offers students a powerful head start on their college journey while saving families money. It’s inspiring to see students like Joseph thrive and educators like Ms. Buhler make such a meaningful impact in the classroom. This program truly benefits everyone involved: students, families and the whole community. 

Presented each fall and spring semester, the Outstanding Dual Credit Student and Faculty awards honor excellence in academic performance and instruction within GC’s growing Dual Credit program. This initiative allows high school students to earn college credit while still completing their high school education.

Batiste, currently enrolled in three dual credit courses, was surprised and honored by the recognition.

“I wasn’t aware that this was an award I could get,” said Batiste. “Dual credit is a fantastic opportunity that’s not provided at a lot of schools. I enjoy my dual credit classes and look forward to them, and my instructors are very kind and intelligent.”

He credits the dual credit experience with preparing him for the rigors of college coursework.

“The assignments and deadlines are similar to high school, but also different,” said Batiste. “It gives me a glimpse of what college is like.”

Looking ahead, Batiste plans to pursue engineering, with a particular interest in aerospace. He also appreciates the financial benefit that dual credit offers his family.

“My dad is definitely enjoying that I’m saving some money while getting college credits,” said Batiste.

Buhler, who teaches Environmental Science through the program, was equally honored to receive the faculty award.

“It’s really nice to receive this award, especially during this time of year when the work can feel thankless,” said Buhler. “It means a lot to know that students feel like they got something meaningful from my class and that we were able to form a positive relationship.”

Buhler emphasizes the academic depth dual credit allows. 

“We can really dig into current topics and look at how they impact our students and natural resources,” said Buhler. “My goal is for students to read more critically, ask better questions, and develop stronger study and note-taking skills.”

 She also highlighted the long-term benefits for students taking dual credit courses.

“It’s a great bang for their buck,” said Buhler. “But more importantly, it prepares them with skills they’ll take with them beyond high school.” 

For more information about the Galveston College Dual Credit program, contact GC Student Success Advisor for Dual Credit, Alisha McCracken, at 409-766-5854 or visit https://gc.edu/admissions/dual-credit.php.

ABOUT GALVESTON COLLEGE

Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs.