Jeff State Community College’s branch in Clanton taught its first class a year ago this month.

Technically, the college opened earlier, conducting classes at the old McKinnon Toyota Showroom. It wasn’t until October that the school moved into its 34,000-square foot facility on Lay Dam Road.

Since then, really even before that significant milestone, the community college has become a vital part of Chilton County and its future.

The school has seen enrollment grow over the past year, indicating residents’ need for quality education and a place to learn job skills.

This fall, 369 students are taking classes at Jeff State, up from 250 last spring.

The college serves several unique purposes. It offers students the chance to prepare for four-year degrees close to home. It also allows workers to earn additional job training and acquire skills that will help them find a better job or better themselves in their current career.

Jeff State also serves many night students. These are people who traditionally work during the day and wouldn’t have the opportunity to advance and educate themselves without the community college.

Congrats to the college for reaching this milestone, and good luck in the future.