Made possible through an expanded partnership with Lone Star College-University Park, Vistas ECHS will allow students to complete a high school diploma and earn up to 60 hours of college credit towards an associate degree at no cost to the student.
According to the school's website, Vistas ECHS is geared towards students who are comfortable in smaller classes on a smaller campus; might be the first in their family to attend college, including those who may be traditionally underrepresented in college admissions; and are more interested in student-driven clubs and other activities than participating in school-sponsored activities such as athletics, band and cheerleading.
The application process for Cohort 2025 opened Jan. 30 and closed March 12.
"I'm grateful for our continued, strong partnership with Lone Star College," KISD Superintendent Jenny McGown said in a statement. "It's an honor to collaborate with our partners in higher education to bring unique opportunities to our secondary students, so they may earn college credit, including their associate degree, while earning high school credit. I look forward to seeing the many accomplishments from the students at Vistas Early College [High] School cohort."
Led by Principal Debbie Pennington, Vistas ECHS is a four-year pathway that will allow students to gradually integrate college coursework through a traditional high school degree plan, plus dual enrollment. According to the release, this model increases college readiness, provides rigorous instruction and coursework, and academic and social support by providing each student access to dual-credit teachers, college professors, mentors and college advisors.
"Lone Star College-University Park is excited to expand our partnership with Klein ISD as we launch the Vistas Early College High School," LSC-University Park President Shah Ardalan said in a statement. "This level of collaboration between our two award-winning entities will undoubtedly benefit students, parents and the community. Every student will have access to our innovative, competent and compassionate faculty, staff and advisers as they complete their associate degree along with their high school diploma. Our graduates will be fully prepared for the next step in their journey, whether they pursue a bachelor's degree or begin their career."
Cohort 2025 will begin its Vistas ECHS journey with a required eight-day Summer Bridge Program June 14-17 and 21-24, during which students will get to know their cohort and school staff, while also registering for and getting a tour of Lone Star College-University Park, among other activities.
For more information about Vistas ECHS, click here.
