Achieve Early College High School
General Information
Overview
Achieve Early College High School, located in McAllen, Texas, is a distinguished institution designed to bridge the gap between high school and higher education. The school operates under the McAllen Independent School District and offers students the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and up to 60 college credit hours simultaneously. Partnered with South Texas College, Achieve Early College High School (AECHS) provides an accelerated academic pathway for motivated students who aspire to enter college early and minimize future educational costs.
The school fosters a culture of high expectations, leadership, and academic excellence. With small class sizes, personalized instruction, and rigorous coursework, students receive the support and challenge needed to succeed in both high school and college-level studies. Achieve Early College High School focuses on developing critical thinking, time management, and communication skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for university and career success. AECHS emphasizes inclusivity and equity, offering first-generation college students and underrepresented groups access to a high-quality education and life-changing opportunities.
Contact Information
Address: 1601 N. 27th Street, McAllen, TX 78501
Phone Number: (956) 971-4200
Email Address: info@achieveechs.org
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2008 |
| Motto | “Achieve More. Dream Bigger.” |
| Type | Public Early College High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| District | McAllen Independent School District |
| Partner College | South Texas College |
| Accreditation | Texas Education Agency (TEA) |
| Mascot | Phoenix |
| School Colors | Red and Gold |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 17:1 |
Achieve Early College High School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Texas High Schools | Top 5% |
| National High Schools | Top 10% |
| Early College High Schools (Statewide) | Top 3 |
| STEM Education | Top 10% |
| Graduation Rate | 98% |
Achieve Early College High School Academics
Achieve Early College High School Faculties / Departments
- English and Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- World Languages Department
- Fine Arts and Performing Arts Department
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department
- Health and Physical Education Department
- College and Career Readiness Department
- Special Education and Student Support Services
Achieve Early College High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Dual Credit Courses (in partnership with South Texas College)
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- Associate of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
- College Preparatory English and Math
- STEM Pathway (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Business and Management Pathway
- Health Sciences Pathway
- Social Sciences and Humanities Pathway
- Fine Arts and Media Studies
- Career and Technical Programs
Online Learning
Achieve Early College High School offers online and hybrid learning options through its partnership with South Texas College and McAllen ISD’s virtual learning platform. Students can take selected college-level courses online, providing flexibility and independence in their academic journey. The school integrates digital tools like Google Classroom, Canvas, and Edgenuity to enhance instruction and facilitate communication between teachers and students. Online courses allow students to complete assignments remotely while maintaining academic rigor. AECHS also offers online tutoring, test preparation, and digital literacy training to support distance learners and ensure equitable access to high-quality education.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Average Score / Percentile |
|---|---|
| SAT Composite | 1180 |
| ACT Composite | 23 |
| State Assessment (ELA) | 90th Percentile |
| State Assessment (Math) | 88th Percentile |
| College Readiness Index | 9.1/10 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Achieve Early College High School maintains an exceptional graduation rate of 98%, significantly higher than state and national averages. The retention rate exceeds 95%, reflecting the school’s supportive environment and commitment to student success. Academic counseling, college mentorship, and small-group instruction ensure students remain on track toward both their high school diploma and associate degree. These high retention and graduation rates underscore AECHS’s dedication to academic excellence and college readiness.
Achieve Early College High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to Achieve Early College High School is competitive, as the school seeks highly motivated students with academic potential and a commitment to higher education. Typically, incoming freshmen have a GPA between 3.0 and 4.0. While SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission, students are expected to maintain college-ready standards, usually scoring between 1100–1250 on the SAT or 21–26 on the ACT by senior year. AECHS values a holistic admissions process that considers academic performance, motivation, and community involvement.
Achieve Early College High School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| In-District Students | 75% |
| Out-of-District Students | 50% |
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 65% |
Achieve Early College High School Application Requirements
Students interested in joining Achieve Early College High School must complete an application that includes personal information, academic records, and a statement of intent explaining why they wish to attend. Teacher recommendations and middle school transcripts are typically required. Applicants may also be invited for an interview to assess academic readiness and commitment. AECHS seeks students who demonstrate a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the desire to earn college credit while completing high school. The admissions team considers both academic and personal potential, ensuring equitable access for first-generation college-bound students.
Application Process
- Complete the online or paper application form
- Submit academic transcripts and teacher recommendations
- Write a personal statement of intent
- Attend an interview or orientation session
- Receive admission decision and registration details
Achieve Early College High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | January 10 |
| Application Deadline | March 1 |
| Interview Period | March 15–April 15 |
| Admission Notifications | May 1 |
| Orientation for New Students | August 5 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to write a short essay on the following topic: “Explain how attending Achieve Early College High School will help you achieve your academic and personal goals.” This essay allows the admissions committee to evaluate applicants’ motivation, critical thinking skills, and readiness for the program’s rigorous dual-credit structure.
Achieve Early College High School Scholarships
AECHS provides access to scholarships through local community organizations, the McAllen Education Foundation, and South Texas College partnerships. Students can earn financial awards based on academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Additionally, college courses taken at South Texas College are free of charge, significantly reducing higher education costs for AECHS students. The school’s counselors guide students through the scholarship application process to ensure maximum access to financial aid opportunities.
Achieve Early College High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Public Students) | Free |
| Dual Credit Courses | Free |
| Activity Fee | $40 per semester |
| Technology Fee | $25 per semester |
| Exam Fees (AP or College) | $96 per exam |
| Uniform Fee | $50 annually |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Achieve Early College High School serves a diverse student population ranging from ages 14 to 18. The gender distribution is nearly equal, with approximately 52% female and 48% male students. The student body reflects the diversity of McAllen and the surrounding Rio Grande Valley region, with 90% Hispanic, 5% White, 3% African American, and 2% Asian students. AECHS embraces this multicultural community by integrating cultural appreciation and inclusive learning practices into its academic and social programs.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Approximately 70% of AECHS students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, demonstrating the school’s focus on supporting low-income and first-generation college students. Around 8% of students receive accommodations through the school’s special education department. AECHS provides individualized academic support, counseling, and accessibility services to ensure all students can achieve their academic goals regardless of background or ability. The school’s equity-centered approach ensures that economic status or disability never hinders student success.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 450 Students |
| Male Students | 48% |
| Female Students | 52% |
| Minority Enrollment | 95% |
| Low-Income Students | 70% |
| Students with Disabilities | 8% |
University Diversity
Achieve Early College High School values diversity as an integral part of its mission. The school fosters an inclusive environment where cultural understanding, equity, and respect are prioritized. Students participate in multicultural events, leadership workshops, and service-learning projects that emphasize collaboration and empathy. AECHS actively promotes equal access to advanced educational opportunities, particularly for underrepresented populations in higher education. This focus on inclusion has made AECHS a model for educational equity and student empowerment across Texas.
Average Earnings
Graduates from Achieve Early College High School often continue their studies at major universities and enter professional careers earlier than their peers. Because students graduate with up to two years of college credit, they save significantly on tuition and enter the workforce sooner. Many alumni pursue careers in healthcare, business, engineering, and education, with average starting salaries above regional averages. AECHS’s strong emphasis on college readiness and workforce preparation ensures its graduates enjoy both economic and academic success.
Achieve Early College High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The dedicated faculty and staff at Achieve Early College High School are central to its success. Comprising certified teachers, college professors, and academic advisors, the AECHS team provides exceptional instruction and mentorship. Faculty members are highly qualified in their respective fields, with many holding advanced degrees and extensive experience in dual-credit education. Support staff, including counselors and academic coaches, ensure that students receive individualized attention throughout their academic journey.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at AECHS are known for their commitment to innovation and student success. Many have received recognition from the Texas Education Agency for excellence in teaching and leadership in early college initiatives. Professors from South Texas College collaborate with AECHS instructors to deliver rigorous college-level content, ensuring that students are well-prepared for higher education. The staff’s professionalism and passion for education contribute to the school’s outstanding academic outcomes.
Achieve Early College High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Achieve Early College High School offers a vibrant academic environment that encourages collaboration, leadership, and community involvement. The campus includes modern classrooms, science and computer labs, a library, and student activity centers. Although AECHS does not offer on-campus housing, students enjoy access to college facilities at South Texas College, including study lounges and academic resource centers. Extracurricular clubs such as Student Council, National Honor Society, and STEM organizations provide students with leadership and personal growth opportunities.
Transportation
The school provides district-managed transportation for eligible students within McAllen ISD boundaries. The campus is easily accessible by public transit and major roadways, making it convenient for daily commuting. AECHS encourages students to participate in carpool programs and provides safe pick-up and drop-off zones. For college-level classes at South Texas College, transportation is coordinated to ensure students can attend both high school and college courses seamlessly.