Priscilla Luna, a senior at Davis High School, has achieved a significant milestone. She has become the first student from Aldine ISD to complete the Accelerated College Academy (ACA) program, setting a remarkable precedent for future graduates. Her achievement is a perfect example of the potential of the ACA program. Now that she has completed her courses with Lone Star College-Houston North, she will submit her application for graduation on October 1 and is set to receive her Associate of Arts degree this fall — all before earning her high school diploma.

Priscilla began the program as a sophomore and, through determination and support from her advisors, has now finished every requirement for her associate degree while still in high school.

“I feel relieved knowing that all the work that I put in years ago has paid off,” Priscilla said. “I hope to be an example for students who are thinking about joining or are unsure about joining ACA, that earning a degree while in high school is possible while still maintaining a typical high school experience, including extracurricular activities, jobs, and a social life.”

Expanding Access to College Credit

The Accelerated College Academy, launched in 2023 in partnership with Lone Star College, is designed to provide dual credit opportunities for Aldine ISD sophomores. The program enables students to complete the 42 semester credit hours required by the Texas core curriculum. Additionally, students have the option to complete an additional 18 credits to earn an associate degree that is designed to transfer to a four-year university. The program offers four pathways: liberal arts, business, STEM, and health science, all of which are aligned with high school endorsements. All courses are part of Lone Star College’s core curriculum.

“Our goal is to provide students with choices and opportunities to pursue their college dreams while creating a positive and supportive learning environment,” said Dr. Susan Pelezo, Aldine ISD’s executive director of advanced academics. “We’ve learned that Aldine students are highly motivated and resilient. They are thriving in courses many would assume are beyond their reach.”

Student Support Systems

Students in the ACA program receive comprehensive academic advising, beginning with pre-program planning before the start of 10th grade and continuing with mandatory advising at 15 and 30 credit hours, as required by Texas law. A final advising session before graduation helps students plan for their next steps, whether it’s transferring to a university or continuing their studies at Lone Star College.

“ACA students have access to a wealth of resources at Lone Star College, including libraries, writing labs, and tutors, ensuring that students like Priscilla never feel like they’re navigating their academic journey alone,” Pelezo added.

That support has been critical for students like Priscilla.

“My high school and college advisors encouraged me to take extra classes and made sure I was on track,” Priscilla said. “They never doubted me, and that ultimately led to me getting ahead in the program.”

Pictured with Priscilla (l-r) are Micheal Crouch, manager of school partnerships and dual credit at Lone Star College; President of LSC-Houston North, Dr. Quentin A. Wright; Dr. Susan Pelezo, AISD executive director of advanced academics; and AISD Chief Communications Officer Sheila Adams.

A Team Effort

Lone Star College advisors work closely with Aldine ISD staff to keep students engaged and on pace.

“It was a mixture of pride and excitement when I realized Priscilla was completing her last class and preparing to graduate,” said Jane Buckner, dual credit advisor with Lone Star College–Houston North. “Her persistence and hard work really paid off. She has shown determination, strong time management, and self-motivation — qualities that make her stand out.”

Collaboration is at the heart of the ACA program’s success, according to Buckner. The teams meet regularly to discuss program needs and student support. As advisors, they also stay connected with high school counselors to ensure that students like Priscilla never feel like they’re navigating this alone. This collaborative approach ensures that every student feels supported and part of a larger community.

A Launchpad for the Future

For Priscilla, the ACA has been both rewarding and challenging. She said the experience taught her how to manage her time more effectively and balance academics with extracurricular activities and a part-time job.

Now, she has her sights set on a career in media. “My future academic goals include attending a four-year university to study communications, film studies, or both, and eventually working on the news or on film sets as a producer or director,” Priscilla said.

Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney emphasized that Priscilla’s journey demonstrates what is possible through strong partnerships.

“Priscilla’s achievement is a powerful example of what’s possible when students are given access, encouragement, and support,” Goffney said. “The Accelerated College Academy is not just a program — it’s a launchpad for students’ future careers. We are proud to partner with Lone Star College in creating clear pathways to college completion and lifelong success.”

Editor’s Note: Priscilla has also been considered for a U.S. Fulbright Program Scholarship, which, if awarded, would allow her to attend Vanderbilt University next year.