Early College Seniors Weather Storms to Graduate

They knew four years ago, there would be obstacles combining high school and college and they trusted the challenge would be worth the struggle.

True to form, as the Early College High School seniors set to graduate lined up in the assembly hall of the Cadence Bank Center Wednesday, the lights went out as a storm raged outside.

After marching into the dimly lit arena to the cheers of their supporters, they waited as crews trucked in external lights and assembled a portable sound system.

With lighting and audio in place, the 226 almost-graduates made their way back to the center lobby and made a second procession into the arena, receiving an even louder show of appreciation. 

As they settled in, audience members illumined the lights on their cell phones, adding a flourish of celebration to an unusual culmination.

Based on the words of valedictorian Alexis Speakman and other class leaders, the KISD Early College High School Class of 2024 pressed through a maze of difficulties to grab their prize.

The top graduate recalled the uncertainty of starting high school during a pandemic with many staying home the first semester to learn remotely.

About the time school took on a more traditional feel, Early College students transitioned to more college level classes.

Early College High School is a partnership between KISD and Central Texas College. Students spend their first two years at a campus on Fort Cavazos, then transition to a pair of buildings at CTC as they take on more college work.

This year, 131 seniors earned an associate of arts degree, which they received at the CTC commencement ceremony a week-and-a-half ago.

Principal Kathleen Burke praised the resilience of the high-achieving students, the perseverance of this year’s sixth graduating class and the success of the award-winning school. 

About 60 percent of the class earned college degrees, about twice the average for Texas early college high schools.

“Here in front of us are not only the academic gifted who beat the district and the state standards every year for STAAR, TSI, completion rates, helped create a model school for early college high school and was just recognized among the best by US News and World Report,” Burke said.

“What most people don’t realize is that amongst us are talented dancers, athletes, acrobats, soldiers, poets, even a heavy metal band. We are so much more than an A-rated campus,” she said.

The principal pointed out her students’ level of sacrifice and the familial bonds they create as they go to college and high school simultaneously.

“To be honest, it’s amazing,” she said. “We created a Lion family where we build each other up and we hold each other accountable. We talk about walking in our truth, doing what is right and forging a network of people who build you up and not tear you down.”

“Inside you is a heart of a Lion who has already weathered many real-world decisions your counterparts have not,” said Burke, noting that these seniors have chosen long-term success over short-term goals.

“This has been an incredible journey,” said Speakman. “Before even coming here, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to pursue going to ECHS. I didn’t think I would fit into the school and be a good enough student.”

She praised her parents, friends, as well as high school teachers and college professors for encouraging her.

The top graduate singled out Ms (Brittany) Roop. “She was like a light in the darkness for me. I found myself opening up to her and slowly learning to enjoy interacting with people.”

Classmate Grace Brown, class vice president, also recalled the untraditional start to high school and expressed the satisfaction of friends and memories.

“It’s not just about the diplomas we hold in our hands,” she said. “It is about knowledge we have gained, the friendships we have forged and the memories we will cherish forever.”

The Early College graduation began a series of six ceremonies for KISD high schools, all at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton.