By Emily Burleigh

Two new on-ground classes will be offered at the Sowela Technical Community College Lamar Salter campus in Leesville, 15014 Lake Charles Highway, for the spring 2025 semester.

“Fundamentals of Accounting” and “IT Essentials: PC Hardware & Software with Lab” will provide more in-person educational opportunities for students in the rural community.

“It may help to grow enrollment, but mainly it provides options for the students, especially those who prefer to learn in a classroom setting rather than online,” said School of Business and Applied Technology Dean Marie Coleman.

She said these classes are “two fundamental courses” required for students. Fundamentals of Accounting is the first accounting course in the associate of applied science accounting degree, and can also be applied to the business administration program

“Offering this course on-ground will provide an option for our Lamar Salter students to meet face-to-face with other students and their instructor,” she said.

IT Essentials is required for students in the information systems technology associate of applied science degree program. This class will be taught by a cybersecurity expert from Fort Johnson who will be able to give students vital hands-on instruction, Coleman said.

“There may be students interested in earning the CompTIA A+ certification that need a refresher course or are new to the field of information systems technology and want to pursue an associate degree.”

The instructor might also be able to recruit individuals from Fort Johnson into the program, as the CompTIA A+ certification — an industry credential that indicates proficiency in critical IT support tasks — is highly recommended (and sometimes required) in the field,” she said.

Current on-ground programs offered at Lamar Salter are business administration, carpentry, practical nursing, vehicle maintenance & repair technology and welding. Business administration and culinary arts are offered online. For more, call 337-537-3135.