ECHS - LIT Partnership Graduates 36 Students with Associate's Degree
Thirty-six Beaumont Early College High School (ECHS) students earned their associate’s degree and graduated from the Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) on May 13, 2022, in addition to their upcoming high school graduation. In addition, 15 students walked with core completion and 113 earned level one certifications.
"I am ecstatic," said ECHS Valedictorian Gladys Oliva Guillen, "I plan on using my associate's degree to further my education to get a bachelor's degree in nursing."
ECHS students may also complete up to 42 hours toward core courses for college that can transfer to any college in Texas.
"Students who complete the program will be two years ahead of their goals or will enter the workforce or military at a higher pay rate than their counterparts the same age," said ECHS principal Melanie Pharis. "The program can break the cycle of poverty in our community. The vast majority of our students come from low-income backgrounds and a college degree or a head start on a bachelor's degree can change a person's view of how capable they believe they are to take more courageous steps toward success."
Students who have completed the program said they are genuinely excited about the opportunities ECHS and LIT have offered them.
"I feel very proud of myself," said ECHS Salutatorian Alondra Guzman Morales. "I did a lot of work, so it is very rewarding to graduate from college first. Not many family members graduate high school, so I feel even more accomplished."