(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Aug. 25, 2026) — For students at Transmountain Early College High School, college doesn't have to wait until after graduation.

Located near the El Paso Community College Transmountain Campus, TMECHS gives students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an associate degree at the same time through a partnership between El Paso ISD and EPCC. Students can pursue either an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science pathway while completing their high school coursework.

The results are reflected not only in the opportunities students receive, but in their academic performance. In the 2026 state accountability ratings, Transmountain Early College earned a 97, an A rating, placing the campus among El Paso ISD's highest-performing schools.

For seniors like Martin Lopez, the experience has been about more than college credits.

“TMECHS has shown me that the future is going to be fun. I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime, built connections with my teachers, and had experiences that have given me memories I’ll carry with me,” Lopez said. “It’s not just about studying and hitting the books, but it’s also about the people you meet and the moments you create along the way.”

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Lopez, who plans to study astrophysics, said he chose Transmountain because he wanted more options for his education and believes the experience has reinforced his plans for the future.

For Kalel Hall, who has graduated from TMECHS, the opportunity to earn an associate degree before completing high school was a major reason he chose the campus.

“The staff and students at TMECHS are warm and welcoming, especially toward new students. They helped me find my place here, and that made a big difference,” Hall said. “I came to TMECHS because I wanted to earn my associate degree before graduating from high school, and if I had to make the choice again, I would choose TMECHS over and over again.”

LEARN MORE: Programs at Transmountain Early College High School

That head start has helped propel other TMECHS graduates toward some of the nation's most selective universities.

David Flores, a TMECHS graduate and QuestBridge Scholar, was matched with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and plans to study chemical engineering. Flores credits his teachers for challenging him academically and helping him build the resume and confidence needed to pursue his goals.

“My teachers pushed me, supported me, and helped me explore my interests. I could see how passionate they were about what they taught, and that helped push me further<” Flores said. “They played a big part in helping me get to where I am today and giving me the confidence to pursue my goals at MIT.”

Trager Simpson, another TMECHS graduate and QuestBridge Scholar, is headed to Stanford University and plans to explore computer science. Simpson said the school's small size has helped create a close-knit culture where students and staff support one another.

“TMECHS has given me opportunities that have helped prepare me for life after high school. The campus is small, but I think that makes the community stronger,” Simpson said. “There’s a very family-like culture here, and people respect each other. That environment has helped me feel prepared for what comes next at Stanford.”

The campus' approach combines rigorous high school coursework with dual-credit college classes, allowing students to make meaningful progress toward a college degree while still in high school. TMECHS also offers academic support and opportunities in areas including engineering, public service, fine arts, athletics, student organizations and academic competitions.

The Class of 2026 included 76 graduates, with students earning Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees through the partnership with EPCC. Several students completed their college degrees before graduation.

For students considering their options after high school, TMECHS offers a path that combines the experience of a high school community with the opportunities of a college campus.

“Transmountain gives students the chance to dream beyond high school and begin working toward those goals years earlier,” said Principal Robert Stives. “Our students challenge themselves, support one another and take advantage of opportunities that prepare them for the next chapter of their lives.”

To explore more programs at El Paso ISD, click here.