Austin Community College has forged a groundbreaking partnership with Round Rock ISD, opening up new avenues of opportunity for students in the area.
Beginning this fall, students at all Round Rock ISD high schools will have the chance to earn an associate degree from ACC alongside their high school diplomas, all at no cost.
Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez said the partnership with ACC will help the District pave more pathways to success for our students.
“By offering free associate degrees alongside their high school diplomas, we’re not only alleviating financial burdens but also empowering our students to reach higher and achieve more,” said Dr. Azaiez.
ACC will confer the associate degrees through a tailored curriculum comprising Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, OnRamps, dual credit and ACC classes designed to fulfill the student’s “Core 42” credits.
This new program is similar to the innovative partnership that brought the district Early College High School in 2016. Since its inception, four graduating classes have earned both their associate degrees and high school diplomas.
Christine Gibson, a junior at Early College High School, said anyone interested in earning their associate degree alongside their high school diploma can do it.
“Don’t shy away from it,” she said. “There are so many support systems here at Round Rock ISD. In the long run, even if you have to forfeit the degree, you do have the experience under your belt and you can maybe get a better job offer or something, so it opens doors.”
By integrating college-level coursework into their high school experience, students will also have the opportunity to fast-track their education. This approach not only reduces the time and costs typically associated with earning an undergraduate degree but also equips students with valuable credentials and skills to enter the workforce earlier.
With that in mind, Sophia Reass, a junior at ECHS stressed the importance of time management for students who might decide to take on an associate degree while in high school.
“You’ll have so many assignments you need to do, but you’ll also have to plan for your own personal time or you’ll start getting burnt out,” she said.
The collaboration between ACC and the District underscores a joint commitment to academic excellence and educational accessibility.
“This initiative reflects our unwavering dedication to providing accessible, quality education,” said Dr. Azaiez. “In doing this, we continue to ensure every student in our District has the opportunity to thrive.”
