Round Rock ISD is seeking community input regarding the possibility of an Early College High School as part of its Strategic Plan.
Early College High School is an innovative option for students to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and 60 college credit hours at no cost. The district is working with Austin Community College as a possible partner for an ECHS.
The district submitted a letter of intent to apply for an Early College High School with a decision expected to be announced in February or March 2016.
If TEA approves Round Rock ISD application and the Board of Trustees approves the project, current eighth and ninth grade students would be invited to apply for the program, which will focus on admitting students underrepresented in higher education.
“Early College High School is a very exciting opportunity for our families that would not be able to afford college or don’t see college within their reach,” said Michelle Swain, director of gifted and advanced academic services. “Round Rock ISD strives to ensure all students graduate with the best options available and this is yet another way we can accomplish that goal.”
Under the ECHS model, students would complete their freshman and sophomore years of high school within a Round Rock ISD facility and slowly integrate dual credit courses. Junior and senior year classes will be entirely at the Austin Community College campus with access to academic and social counseling.
The first year of the school could host up to 120 students. In the future, the school could consist of 400-600 students, grades 9-12, and would be open to all Round Rock ISD students. The school will focus on clubs and leadership opportunities.
The Early College High School program is in alignment with Goal 5 of the Round Rock ISD Strategic Plan, which states that the district “will design our schools by creating flexible programs and learning environments.”
“Early College High School centers on expanding higher education opportunities for first-generation and underrepresented college students,” said Dr. Daniel Presley, Round Rock ISD senior chief of schools and innovation. “We are excited to connect with the community to explore this opportunity.”
Students and parents are invited to provide input on the Early College High School program through the designated surveys through Nov. 16.
No decisions have been finalized and the official opening of the school must be a formal vote from the Round Rock ISD Board of Trustees.
