Explore Arlington ISD
What’s there to explore at Explore Arlington ISD tomorrow?
That’s not an easy question – because there’s a lot to see.
Arlington ISD offers specialized learning opportunities to match every student’s interests, passions and goals. Whether you’re a parent or a student, this event is your chance to learn first-hand about programs like Arlington ISD’s early college high dchools, P-TECH programs, STEM academies, fine arts and dual language academies, the elementary leadership academy, and much more.
So, why should you explore these opportunities? Ask the experts – the students already in these programs. They can tell you.
Like Kaylie Nguyen, a senior in the STEM Academy at Martin High School, who plans to become a doctor. For her, the academy is the perfect foundation.
ACCHS students at TCC graduation
“The Martin STEM Academy has given me the opportunity to explore my passion for biomedical science in a hands-on and challenging way,” Kaylie said. “Through the biomed pathway, I’ve been able to gain knowledgeable insights about the healthcare field within a classroom setting. Not only that, my problem solving and critical thinking skills have advanced due to the coursework. Because of STEM, I really do feel like I’m being prepared for college and for my future career in the medical field.”
The STEM Academy isn’t the only option for students interested in health care. Bowie High School’s Pathways in Technology program (P-TECH) focuses on health sciences and partners with Medical City Arlington to give students real-world education and experience.
Bowie’s program is one of four P-TECHs in the district, each with its own career focus. At Lamar High School’s P-TECH, the focus is on business and cybersecurity. That’s where senior Fred Threats Jr. has thrived and grown into a districtwide leader.
“Applying to Lamar P-TECH has been one of the most proactive decisions I’ve made toward building a stable and fulfilling future,” Fred said. “What I’ve valued most is the program’s partnership with AVID, which embraces diversity and celebrates the unique perspectives, approaches, and cultures that help us face every challenge, academically and personally. I’ve earned 47 college credits and am on track to receive an associate degree, while one of my closest friends will graduate with two! That’s the power of P-TECH – cultivating resilience, community, and college- and career-ready professionals who are prepared to lead beyond graduation.”
Speaking of associate degrees, nearly every student at Arlington Collegiate High School and Arlington College and Career High School (ACCHS) earns an associate degree from Tarrant County College by the time they graduate from high school.
In Tatum Skari’s case, she earned her associate degree before her senior year even started. The ACCHS senior and aspiring teacher loves the “endless opportunities” her school provides.
“I love having a school full of supportive teachers, staff, and peers,” Tatum said. “I would recommend ACCHS to others because of the small environment where teachers are able to work one on one with you and provide more individualized attention … Our counselors and teachers work with us so we can reach our high school and associate’s requirements while finding classes that are a good fit for our future careers and degree as well as our current abilities.”
Pearcy STEM Academy
While early college high schools start in ninth grade, Arlington ISD also offers many opportunities that begin much earlier – even in elementary school.
At Pearcy STEM Academy, hands-on learning challenges students to think critically, embrace mistakes, and grow from them.
“Pearcy is benefiting me because it is a STEM academy and we learn so much,” said Lyric T., a sixth grader. “It can be hard in the beginning, but you’re learning new things and it will get easier.”
Lauren W., another Pearcy student, says she not only loves what she’s learning, but she also values the strong sense of community at her school.
“Pearcy is giving me opportunities and helping me to think about my future, and they help me spread my ideas,” she said. “We all care for each other and we are all together even if we lose. I’ve made a lot of friends and they have helped me be myself here at Pearcy.”
Over at Crow Leadership Academy, students participate in one of the only elementary International Baccalaureate programs in the Metroplex.
Crow Leadership Academy
STEM academies, P-TECHs and early college high schools are just a sample of the specialized opportunities available in Arlington ISD. The district also offers fine arts and dual language academies at Corey, Jones, Gunn and Arlington High, as well as the Crow Leadership Academy and Wimbish World Language Academy.
So, come explore everything Arlington ISD has to offer and discover new opportunities for your child.
Explore Arlington ISD is tomorrow evening, Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center from 6–7:30 p.m. Sign up for Explore Arlington ISD here.
Learn more about Arlington ISD’s specialized programs here. Applications open tomorrow at noon and will close on Jan. 12.