This report from the Institute for Public School Initiatives at the University of Texas at Austin references NC New Schools’ work in developing the early college high school model, specifically the Northeast Regional School for Biotechnology and Agriscience and the Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy.
Report Summary
The Texas Legislature made a promise to students and businesses by passing HB5. Now districts have to ensure that students have the necessary skills to enter college and/or the workforce. Although this may seem like something new and an impossible feat, there are schools and programs in Texas and throughout the nation that model successful college and career ready programs. Early College High Schools (ECHS) are examples of college ready campuses. The next step is to look at ECHS campuses that also prepare students for the workforce. Presently, the college and career ready ECHS campuses have three things in common: engaged partners, endorsement supported curriculum, and teacher focused endorsement supported professional development. Since each campus is unique due to the strong bond between the school and their partners, there are several successful models available for campuses to replicate, learn from and get inspiration from while creating their own unique college and career ready campus. HB5 supports businesses hiring Texas students and encourages educators and businesses to merge or work together to support and provide the skills our students need to be both college and career ready.
