(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – May 19, 2026) — Before they receive their high school diplomas, hundreds of El Paso ISD students have already achieved something remarkable: earning college degrees and industry certifications that position them for success long before most students begin their college journey.
On Monday, students from El Paso ISD’s Early College High Schools and Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) programs walked the stage during El Paso Community College commencement ceremonies, earning Associate Degrees and Level 1 Industry Certificates while still enrolled in high school.
For many families, the moment represented more than academic achievement. It was the realization of years of sacrifice, determination, and opportunity.
The milestone also reflects El Paso ISD’s and its local partner’s commitment to preparing students for both college and high-demand careers through innovative academic pathways that remove financial barriers and accelerate opportunity.
Research continues to show the long-term impact of early college and P-TECH programs. According to national education studies, students who earn college credentials while in high school are significantly more likely to complete postsecondary degrees and enter the workforce with stronger earning potential.
SEE MORE PHOTOS: El Paso ISD/El Paso Community College Graduation Ceremonies
This year’s graduates, over 290, represented a wide range of career fields, including healthcare, education, business, computer science, criminal justice, automotive technology, and multidisciplinary studies.
Among the district’s standout accomplishments:
• Transmountain Early College High School celebrated dozens of graduates earning Associate Degrees in Science and Arts programs.
• Burges High School honored students who earned Level 1 Mechanic Technician certifications, preparing them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
• Andress Education & Teaching P-TECH celebrated its inaugural cohort of future educators earning Associate Degrees in Teaching.
• Austin Computer Science P-TECH launched its first graduating class of students earning degrees in Computer Science.
• Coronado Business P-TECH graduated students with degrees in Accounting, Business, and Economics.
El Paso Computer Science P-TECH graduated students in the Computer Science field.
• Irvin Medical P-TECH celebrated its inaugural medical cohort, including students earning Emergency Medical Technician and Certified Medical Assistant credentials.
• Franklin Medical P-TECH graduated students prepared to continue careers in healthcare and emergency services.
• Jefferson Medical P-TECH and Silva Health Magnet also celebrated graduates earning college credentials in medical and multidisciplinary pathways.
Among the many achievements celebrated Monday were two Burges Early College High School juniors who completed their Associate Degrees a full year before graduating high school which is a testament to the rigor and opportunity available through El Paso ISD’s college readiness programs.
By connecting students directly to college coursework, industry certifications, and workforce opportunities, El Paso ISD continues to create pathways that prepare graduates to thrive in college, careers, and life.