Lutie students can now earn college credits free through in-person classes
Lutie business teacher Rob Matyska is now leading dual credit, in-person business courses for the district’s students, which allow them to attend class during the normal school day in his classroom on campus while earning college credit hours from Ozarks Technical College in Springfield. Best of all, the courses are free to all students who take them, thanks to an OTC grant and Lutie School district funds.
The Lutie School District recently announced the expansion of its seated dual credit offerings, providing students with the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school, at little to no cost to families.
Superintendent Kathalee Cole said the new program, unlike others at neighboring districts, allows students to attend the college classes at Lutie High School with an instructor in the classroom with them. Many other programs rely on online classes or other ways of instruction with professions off-campus, she explained.
A closer look at the program
Cole says Lutie’s seated dual credit program operates much like a standard high school class. Students meet during the regular school day and are taught in person by Lutie business teacher Rob Matyska, who is credentialed to deliver college-level instruction. She says students will earn college credits through Ozarks Technical Community College (OTC), giving them a meaningful head start toward college or career training.
She says nearly every business course offered in grades 9-12 carries college credit, with GCT 105 (a graphic arts and desktop publishing class) currently serving as the only exception at the moment. As a result, every student enrolled in senior high business classes can earn college credit while completing their high school coursework.
Matyska says that the GCT 105 is not included yet because the department at OTC is currently in the midst of a curriculum review. He anticipates they will work with Lutie to approve the class moving forward once the review is completed.
Courses offered
The seated dual credit courses currently available include:
BUS 110 – Principles of business (3 college credits): This course provides a comprehensive overview of business in the United States and the global economy. Students explore marketing, management, human resources, finance, accounting, ethics, technology, international trade and the impact of e-commerce, while also examining career opportunities across multiple business fields.
BUS 115 – Personal finance (3 college credits): This course introduces students to personal financial planning including budgeting, credit, insurance, investments, housing and retirement planning. Emphasis is placed on helping students develop lifelong financial skills that support responsible decision-making and long-term financial security.
CIS 120 – Introduction to computer programming (3 college credits): This course introduces students to the field of information technology with an emphasis on problem-solving, structured program design and beginning programming techniques. Students also learn about computer ethics, professional responsibilities, and career pathways within the technology sector.
CIS 101 – Technical and digital literacy (3 college credits): This hands-on course provides an overview of essential digital literacy skills, including computer hardware, software, programming concepts, cybersecurity, safety and information systems. Students gain practical experience using common software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation tools and internet-based resources.
ACC 120 – College accounting, part I (3 college credits; offered in alternating years): This course introduces students to the accounting cycle using a manual bookkeeping approach for a sole proprietorship. Topics include journals and ledgers, adjusting and closing entries, financial statements, cash management and inventory systems.
Each course functions as a seated class, allowing students to receive face-to-face instruction, ask questions in real time, and receive immediate feedback and academic support.
Why this program stands out
While many nearby schools offer dual credit primarily through online coursework, Lutie’s program is unique because instruction is in-person, local and relationship-driven, Cole says.
Although students may still choose to enroll in online dual credit courses through OTC or MSU-West Plains, these seated classes are taught in person by a Lutie teacher, with students present in the classroom. She says this structure promotes accountability, stronger student-teacher relationships and individualized support.
Making college credit affordable
One of the most significant benefits of the program is its affordability. Students apply for the “Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment Scholarship for Students” through the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. For students who do not qualify for the state scholarship, Lutie School District provides additional funding to ensure financial barriers do not limit access.
Strong student participation and interest
Enrollment has been encouraging, with every student enrolled in these classes earning college credit:
BUS 110 – 10 students
BUS 115 – 6 students
CIS 120 – 7 students
Interest continues to grow as students and families recognize the academic, financial, and career advantages of earning college credit before graduation.
Supporting postsecondary success
Historically, approximately 25 to 50 percent of Lutie graduates continue their education through college or trade school. District leaders believe this program will increase those numbers by exposing students to college-level expectations early and reducing both the cost and time required to complete postsecondary education.
Graduating with college credit already earned provides students with confidence, momentum, and flexibility as they transition into college, technical training, or the workforce.
How the program began
Cole says the seated dual credit program officially launched this semester. The initiative was spearheaded by Matyska, who holds a PhD in Practical Arts Vocational-Technical Education (PAVTE) from the University of Missouri, specializing in business and office education and comprehensive vocational education. His expertise and vision helped bring the program to life.
Working collaboratively, Matyska and Cole completed the certification process required for Lutie to offer seated dual credit courses on campus through OTC.
A message to the community
Cole emphasized that the program reflects Lutie’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school, whether that path leads to college, technical training or immediate entry into the workforce.
“This is about opportunity,” she said. “We want our students to graduate with options, confidence and a head start. This program is an investment in their future and in the future of our community.”