ACCELERATE: Early Degree Program
Waco ISD's ACCELERATE Early Degree Program
What is ACCELERATE?
ACCELERATE offers Waco ISD students the chance to complete both their high school diploma requirements and their Associates Degree requirements through McLennan Community College at the same time! Students can graduate from high school with a high school diploma AND a college degree, cutting off 2 years of college time and expense. Waco ISD covers all costs, including textbooks and transportation, if necessary.
Where is ACCELERATE offered?
ACCELERATE courses are offered in a variety of settings: both in-person and online at University High School and Waco High School, as well as in-person on the McLennan Community College campus.
Who can participate in ACCELERATE?
ACCELERATE is open to incoming 9th graders who choose to participate in the program, as long as the student agrees to the terms of program participation. (see HS College and Career Readiness counselor for details).
Why would a student want to participate in ACCELERATE?
Participating in ACCELERATE can save students an average of $10,000, depending upon the number of credit hours required by the chosen pathway (based upon an average cost of $360/credit hour at a Texas 4-year college plus a cost of $500/semester for books and materials). They can also save themselves two years in college, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree (in most cases) in just two additional years!
How can a student participate in ACCELERATE?
- Current 8th graders should contact their middle school counselor about applying for the ACCELERATE program.
- Current high school students should contact their campus CCMR Specialist.
- Students must pass the TSIA2 ELAR assessment to qualify for the ACCELERATE program. The CCMR Specialist will schedule TSIA2 testing at high schools and middle schools.
- While participating in the ACCELERATE program, students must maintain satisfactory course progress as defined by the State of Texas. This requires Dual Credit students to maintain at least a 2.0 GPA for Dual Credit coursework. Students must also pass other core courses needed for graduation and maintain a good record of attendance.