Freshman Ibrahim Chege is part of the first class of students who are helping to shape the legacy of Irving ISD’s newest school – South Irving Collegiate Academy.
“Trailblazer. It is the name of our school mascot, and it makes me feel proud of myself because I am a part of starting something big,” says Chege. “It is very much a small, hometown feel where everyone knows each other, and it is amazing. It feels like we are all connected.”
South Irving Collegiate Academy is one of Irving ISD’s three choice schools. Students accepted into this academy have various opportunities awaiting them, including attending classes on a college campus (Dallas College Irving Center), saving up to $50,000 in college tuition and the chance to earn an Associate of Arts in Teaching, an Associate of Science or up to 60 hours of transferable college credit that will apply to a four-year degree.
Chege first learned of South Irving Collegiate Academy as an eighth grader at Travis Middle School.
“Principal Perla and his staff came to our school and talked to us about everything that South Irving Collegiate Academy had to offer,” Chege says. “When I found out that you can earn a college degree while in high school, I decided to make the choice to attend.”
Another thing that enticed Chege to choose South Irving was the small class sizes.
“I’ll be able to be noticed a lot better by my teachers which will lead to me being better supported through my academic journey,” Chege says as he remembers his thought process from a year ago.
South Irving Collegiate Academy is the first P-TECH campus in Irving ISD and the first choice school in South Irving. Having opened in the fall of 2022, the school will welcome up to 100 students each year.
“We are looking for students who are looking to make a legacy,” says Miahasha Williams, Lead Counselor at South Irving Collegiate Academy. “Oftentimes, our students are the first in their families to attend college. We want students who want the opportunity to have access to college and career opportunities and students who are willing to work hard and reap the benefits.”
Speaking of the benefits, the P-TECH model goes even further with the inclusion of Industry Partners. Students will participate in high-quality work-based learning through internships and will graduate with a robust resume, industry certifications and the skills necessary for success.
When students graduate from South Irving Collegiate Academy, they will be prepared to transfer to any four-year university, go straight into their dream career, or do both.
“I’m looking forward to majoring in political science and maybe one day becoming a lawyer, judge, senator, mayor or politician,” says Chege
Do not be surprised if you see Chege on campaign signs around the city in the next few years.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying to South Irving Collegiate Academy, click here to learn more.
