Douglas Education Center

10/09/2026

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved former employee, BJ Rapp, who dedicated more than 20 years of service to DEC.

Hired in July 2003, she spent more than 14 years serving students in Financial Aid before transitioning to the role of Educational Records Assistant and Receptionist/Greeter. In each position, she made a lasting impact through her dedication, kindness, and commitment to our school.

She officially retired on January 31, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service and cherished memories. She will be fondly remembered by the colleagues, students, and friends whose lives she touched throughout her time with us.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones. She was, and always will be, a member of the DEC family, and she will be greatly missed.

10/08/2026

Graduate Success | Eric Zapata | Pt. 2

Tom Savini Special Make-Up Effects Program graduate, Eric Zapata talks "Faceoff!"🖌️📺

Check out Tom Savini's Special Make-Up Effects program at www.dec.edu/ts/

10/08/2026

Our student museum and lounge is looking a little extra spooky this time of year… 👀 Hopefully we don’t have a Night at the Museum situation happening at DEC after dark. 🎃💀 Take a look at some of the characters and creatures our students have brought to life. 🕷️👻

10/07/2026

Graduate Success | Eric Zapata | Pt. 1

Tom Savini Special Make-Up Effects Program graduate Eric Zapata came back to Douglas Education Center to share his experience, talk about his journey, and offer a look into life after graduation.

We sat down with Eric to hear more about his time at Douglas, his career in special makeup effects, and what he’s learned along the way. 👏

Learn more about Tom Savini's Special Make-Up Effects program at www.dec.edu/ts/

10/07/2026

✨☕️

Welcome to all of the new fall and returning students to the Douglas Education Center. We are glad you are here and look forward to getting to know you. Enjoy the journey☕🌟🎉

10/06/2026

A little horror, a little history, and a lot of insight. 🧟‍♂️🎬
Students recently joined Jerry Gergley, Director of the Tom Savini Special Make-Up Effects Program, for a screening of Flesheater! After the film, Jerry hosted a Q&A with students, sharing stories and insight from his experience working on the film. Did you know this piece of trivia?🫀🐷

➡️: dec.edu/ts

10/06/2026

🎬 Got a story to tell?
Turn your ideas into something people can see, hear and experience in the George A. Romero Filmmaking Program. Get hands-on experience behind the camera, on set and throughout the filmmaking process.
Learn by doing. Earn for Life. 🎞️✨
🎥 Head to dec.edu/df to learn more!

10/05/2026

A look inside the Fashion & Performance Makeup class within Tom Savini’s Special Makeup Effects program! ✨🧨
Makeup done by: Sadie Krull
Model: Kat Sparkenbaugh
📸: Lauren Keller | Creative Portrait Photographer
Interested in learning more about the program? Check out the link below to explore Tom Savini’s Special Makeup Effects program at DEC. 👇

10/05/2026

🚧 30 Donner has a new name AND a new look! ⚡❄️
What was once known as 30 Donner has been transformed into the Skilled Trades Center at Douglas Education Center.
The newly refreshed facility continues to support CDL and HECS (Heavy Equipment, CDL and Safety) training while expanding to include HVACR and Commercial & Residential Electrician programs.
With updated spaces, new signage, and a fresh identity, the Skilled Trades Center is built to provide hands-on training for students preparing for careers in some of today’s most in-demand skilled trades.
🔧 New name. New programs. New opportunities. Want to learn more? ➡️ dec.edu/programs