Imagine getting your college ID before your high school ID. That’s the reality for the second cohort of students in the Early College High School at Alamo Heights.
At the end of July, almost 90 incoming 9th graders visited the St. Philips College campus to officially start their journey as high school and college students.
When the Class of 2029 graduates, they’ll have earned both a high school diploma and an Associate’s of Arts degree. Starting as freshmen, they’ll take college level courses.
"Watching these students pick up their college IDs before their high school ones is a powerful reminder of what this program is all about- early access, high expectations, and the pathway to endless possibilities,” said Linda Fair, ECHS/P-TECH Program Coordinator.
All dual credit classes are taught on the Alamo Heights HS campus, allowing students to benefit from the full high school experience while also taking college level classes taught by AHHS teachers.
For the incoming class, the end of summer was their first introduction to the new program. They attended a Summer Bridge program for a week that introduced them to the rigors of college coursework and culminated in an induction ceremony with their families.
“The Early College program is an incredible opportunity that I believe will set me on the path to a successful future,” says 9th grader Alejandro Trujillo. “I believe this opportunity will allow me to grow not only academically, but also personally. The Summer Bridge program gave me a different perspective on college life and helped me understand how independent you are going to have to be and that you're going to have to work very hard.”
The Early College High School program officially began in fall of 2024 on the Alamo Heights High School campus. Each year, 8th graders apply to join the program. The first cohort will graduate in 2028.
Visit the Early College High School website for more information.