Early College High School (ECHS)
BLUEPRINT
See the full ECHS blueprint here
PROGRAM APPLICATION
Cycle is currently Open
Purpose of ECHS
The Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) Early College High School (ECHS) initiative is an open-enrollment program that blends college and high school coursework, enabling students to earn an applied associate degree or academic associate degree, with a completed field of study, that is transferable towards a baccalaureate degree, tuition free. This program aims to support at-risk and economically disadvantaged students by providing an access ramp to postsecondary education. According to research done by the American Institutes for Research, ECHS students are nearly three times as likely to earn an associate degree or bachelor’s degree than their non-ECHS peers.
Why ECHS?
Reduces barriers to college access
Allows students to earn an applied associate degree or academic associate degree, with a completed field of study, that is transferable towards a baccalaureate degree.
Increases college and career readiness
Creates a seamless transition from high school to college through local partnerships with institutions of higher education
Provides academic, technical, and individual support
Develops critical power skills needed for college and career success