Collegiate Academy of Birdville

March 27, 2025

Birdville ISD Proposes Transition to Stand-Alone Early College High School 

Birdville ISD has approved transitioning the Collegiate Academy of Birdville (CAB) to a stand-alone Early College High School (ECHS) at Tarrant County College Northeast Campus (TCC) beginning with the 2025-26 school year. The Board of Trustees approved the change at its March 27 meeting. 

“The passage of House Bill 8 in the 2023 legislative session changed the landscape for dual credit and Early College High Schools,” Superintendent Dr. Gayle Stinson said. “Because all BISD students now have the opportunity to enroll in dual credit courses offered through TCC at no additional cost, our students can access opportunities that align with the state’s emerging workforce needs and postsecondary options that lead to a credential of value.” 

CAB, launched in 2019, allows students to earn an associate degree from TCC while completing high school. Moving all classes to TCC will create a fully immersive college experience and align CAB with other area ECHS programs. 

“With TCC’s expanded capacity and new state funding for dual-credit courses, this is the right time for this transition,” said Elizabeth A. Clark, Ed.D., associate superintendent. 

The change will offer students more college electives, internships, and work-based learning opportunities while increasing eligibility for state scholarships. While UIL extracurricular activities will no longer be available to CAB students, they can join TCC clubs and fine arts programs. Students currently enrolled in CAB who choose to exit the program may remain at Haltom High or return to their home campus while completing an associate degree through TCC Connect.