Before they put on their cap and gown for high school graduation, a group of Arlington ISD seniors have already crossed a different stage … one where they received college degrees!
Nearly 200 Arlington ISD students walked the stage at Tarrant County College’s 2026 commencement ceremony this past weekend, earning associate degrees weeks before receiving their high school diplomas.
The students hail from Arlington Collegiate High School, Arlington College and Career High School, Bowie High School, and Lamar High School.
“We are extremely proud of the Arlington ISD students who are graduating with their associate degree from TCC before earning their high school diploma,” said Traci Thomas-Bragg, director of postsecondary partnerships. “These outstanding students began taking college courses during their freshman year of high school and have achieved this remarkable accomplishment debt-free.”
Through the district’s partnership with Tarrant County College, students are able to start taking college courses as early as their freshman year, at no cost to families. The early college and dual‑credit programs allow students to complete up to 60 hours of transferable college credit, giving them a head start toward a bachelor’s degree or career certification.
This includes students enrolled in P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) programs, which blends high school classes, college courses, and industry training. Students study business and cybersecurity through P-TECH at Lamar and health sciences through P-TECH at Bowie.
“Through our partnership with Arlington ISD, students are not only earning credentials, they’re building momentum toward meaningful futures,” TCC Chancellor Elva LeBlanc said. “Together, we are aligning education with opportunity and creating pathways that connect students directly to high-demand careers and continued learning.”
Congratulations graduates!
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