• Benchmark 4: Curriculum and Support

    The Early College High School shall provide a rigorous course of study that enables a participating student to receive a high school diploma and complete the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s (THECB) core curriculum (as defined by the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §4.28), obtain certifications, or earn an associate’s degree, or earn at least 60 credit hours toward a baccalaureate degree during grades 9 12. The ECHS shall provide students with academic, social, and emotional support in their course of study.

    All ECHSs must implement and meet the following requirements:

    1. The ECHS shall provide a course of study that enables participating students the opportunity to complete high school graduation requirements and earm an associate’s degree or at least 60 semester credit hours toward a baccalaureate degree. A four-year crosswalk must be in place detailing how students will progress toward this goal including alignment of high school and college level courses. This crosswalk must provide pathways to a certification, an associate’s degree, or a baccalaureate degree and must follow the courses and fields of study listed in the THECB Lower Division Academic Course Guide Manual (ACGM) and/or the Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM). The campus may implement multiple dual enrollment delivery models:
      1. College courses taught on the college campus by college faculty
      2. College courses taught on the high school campus by college faculty
      3. College courses taught on the high school campus by qualified high school faculty
      4. College courses taught virtually, via distance/online/blended learning

    2. The ECHS shall support students in their course of study.
      1. The ECHS shall provide academic support to the students by personalizing the learning environment in the following ways:
        • Developing individualized student plans for ongoing academic support,
        • Providing tutoring and/or Saturday school for identified students in need of academic supports,
        • Providing advisory and/or college readiness and support time built into the program of study for all students, and
        • Establishing a mentorship program available to all students.
      2. The ECHS shall provide social and emotional support to the students as needed, including:
        • connections to social services
        • parent outreach and involvement opportunities
      3. The ECHS shall provide enrichment opportunities, including:
        • A structured program of community service to promote community involvement.
        • Partnering with community businesses to expose students to a variety of potential career options and possible internship opportunities.
        • Providing college awareness to current and prospective students and families, including:
          1. Application assistance, 
          2. Financial aid counseling, and
          3. College and career counseling.

    3. The ECHS shall biannually implement a structured data review processes designed to identify student strengths and weaknesses and develop individual instructional support plans.

    Activities: 

    • All products shall be published on the ECHS’s website and be made available to TEA upon request.
    • All products shall be maintained in accordance with the local records retention policy.

    Products: 

    • 60 college credit hours crosswalk
    • Calendar of family outreach events
    • Professional learning community agendas and notes
    • Advisory/study skills curriculum material
    • Master schedules