(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT - Oct. 29, 2026) — Forty-five El Paso ISD students have earned national academic recognition for their performance in rigorous college-level courses while still in high school through the National Education Opportunity Network (NEON).
The students are among 1,392 scholars nationwide recognized this semester for their academic performance in NEON courses during the Spring 2026 semester. The students recognized represent the top 20% of nearly 10,000 students who participated in NEON courses across the country.
For El Paso ISD, the recognition highlights the opportunities available to students through the district's partnership with NEON. More than 700 El Paso ISD students have participated in NEON's college-level coursework, giving students the opportunity to challenge themselves academically and earn college credit while still in high school.
Bringing College-Level Learning to High School
NEON is a nonprofit organization that partners with colleges and universities to provide college credit-bearing courses and support to students at Title I and Title I-eligible high schools at no cost to students.
Through NEON, students can take rigorous courses taught by university professors, participate in weekly live discussions with university teaching fellows and receive support from their high school teachers. Students who successfully complete the courses can earn transferable college credits and an official transcript from the institution offering the course.
“Many El Paso ISD students have taken advantage of the opportunity to challenge themselves through rigorous college coursework with NEON, and we are proud to see that opportunity continue to grow,” said El Paso ISD Chief Academic Officer Al Garcia. “These students represent the latest group to be recognized for their outstanding performance, and their success is a reflection of what our students can accomplish when they are given meaningful opportunities to learn, explore and prepare for their futures.”
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For students, opportunities like NEON can provide an early introduction to the expectations of college-level academics while allowing them to earn credits before graduating from high school.
The 45 El Paso ISD students recognized this semester represent students from eight El Paso ISD high schools including:
Austin High School
Bowie High School
Burges High School
Chapin High School
Coronado High School
El Paso High School
Jefferson Silva High School
Young Women’s STEAM Research and Preparatory Academy
The students’ achievement is part of a growing partnership focused on expanding access to challenging academic opportunities and helping students build confidence and skills for college and career.
Across El Paso ISD, students continue to find opportunities to explore what's possible when they are given access to rigorous coursework, meaningful support and pathways that connect high school learning to their futures.
Learn more about the NEON program, by clicking here.