The Early College Programs applications for the 2027-2028 school year open in Late Fall 2026. 

Go Here: https://www.austinisd.org/enroll  

Early College Programs Application

Info Slides (for NEW parents) 

• Regional Eligibility: Early College High School Academy pathways at Akins High School are available to all qualified applicants across Austin ISD and neighboring districts.

   

• Enrollment Preference: Preference for the General Studies Degree Track is granted to students who reside within the primary Akins ECHS attendance zone.

   

• Contact Information: For inquiry, academic advisement, or application support, please consult the ECHS administrative team:

  • John A. Rodriguez | ECHS Project Specialist | john.a.rodriguez@austinisd.org john.a.rodriguez@austinisd.org

  • Christine Hankins | ECHS Counselor | christine.hankins@austinisd.org 

christine.hankins@austinisd.org

• Established Success: Founded during the 2019–2020 school year, the Early College High School (ECHS) program operates as the 7th specialized academy at Akins High School.

   

• Tuition-Free College Credit: Students can earn up to 60 hours of transferable college credit—the equivalent of an Associate Degree—at zero cost for tuition, textbooks, or fees.

   

• A Proven Advantage: ECHS bridges high school and higher education, giving students a head start on their college degrees while remaining fully involved in high school life.

What is Work based Learning?

• Real-World Experience: Work-Based Learning (WBL) provides hands-on, career-focused experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world industries.

• Industry Exploration: ECHS students participate in site visits (such as active construction projects and modern housing developments), interactive workshops, and collaborative industry panels.

• Valued Partnerships: Through our strong community partnerships with the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) and Austin Community College (ACC), students learn directly from working professionals and industry experts.

• Skill-Based Application: Students engage in problem-solving sessions, ask critical questions about industry trends, and complete hands-on projects that prepare them for success in college and future careers.