Early College High School Program

Students on this pathway can earn their Associate Degree from Austin Community College.

They can earn up to 60 college credit hours from ACC.

Students on this pathway can take college classes that transfer to other public post-secondary institutions in Texas.

They can earn 42+ college credit hours.

What is the Early College High School Program at Lockhart High School?

Early College High Schools (ECHS) are open-enrollment high schools that allow students an opportunity to receive both a high school diploma and either an associate degree or at least 60 college credit hours toward a baccalaureate degree. ECHS campuses enroll historically underrepresented students, targeting first generation, at-risk and economically disadvantaged, provide dual credit at no cost to students, offer rigorous instruction and accelerated courses, provide academic and social support services to help students succeed, provide students with highly personalized attention, increase college readiness, and partner with Texas institutions of higher education (IHEs) to reduce barriers to college access.

Do I have to pay to enroll in the Early College High School Program at Lockhart High School?

No, it is completely FREE to enroll in the Early College High School program.

Can I participate in UIL activities (Athletics, Band, Fine/Performing Arts, etc) as an ECHS student?

Yes! As a student in the Early College High School Program at Lockhart High School, you can still participate in any other extracurricular activities and athletics affiliated with LHS.

What’s the difference between an ECHS and Advanced Placement (AP) and dual credit on a traditional high school campus?

All options provide students the opportunity to earn college credit while in high school. Early College High School program students will earn a high school diploma and an Associates of Arts in General Studies from Austin Community College.

• High School Diploma: Early College High School program students follow the same requirements as all LISD students with the standard Early College High School four-year plan aligning with the highest graduation plan. This plan, the Lockhart ISD Distinguished with Honors, allows students to qualify for Automatic (Top 10%) Admission to Texas state colleges and universities.

• ACC Associates of Arts in General Studies: Students must earn at least 60 college credits in the following categories: Communication, Mathematics, Life and Physical Science, Language, Philosophy & Culture, Creative Arts, American History, Government/Political Sciences, Component Area Option, and electives.

Where is the Early College High School Program located? Where do I take my classes as an ECHS student?

The Early College High School Program is located at Lockhart High School. You will attend classes at Lockhart High School, just like other students.

Who should I contact if I have questions about the program?

Please contact Maggie McBride at margaret.mcbride@lockhart.txed.net if you have any questions about the Early College High School program.