That’s now a reality for hundreds of students across San Antonio, thanks to a new dual-credit partnership between Alamo Colleges and St. Mary’s University. Launched June 3, 2025, this $1.1 million initiative aims to certify 100 high school teachers so they can offer college-level English, history, and political science courses directly at their schools. The payoff? Students can earn up to 15 college credits before they even don a cap and gown.
San Antonio Students Just Got a Major Boost
| What’s New | Quick Stat |
|---|---|
| Free training for teachers | $1.1 million covers tuition and fees |
| Big student impact | Up to 1,750 students reached by year three |
| School districts involved | Northside, North East, East Central ISDs |
| Subjects covered | U.S. history, English, political science |
As someone who’s worked alongside high school teachers integrating college-level material, I’ve seen the power of dual-credit firsthand. It’s not just about knocking out electives early—it’s about giving kids a concrete, confidence-boosting start to their higher education journey.
This partnership removes some of the biggest obstacles—cost, distance, and uncertainty. If the model succeeds, it could be a national template for how to link K-12 with higher ed in a way that actually sticks.
A Partnership Built for Progress
At its core, this dual-credit deal is about equity, efficiency, and empowerment. By training local teachers through St. Mary’s new graduate certificate and master’s programs in curriculum and instruction, the initiative enables high school students to access rigorous, college-level coursework without ever leaving their campus.
“We’re growing college in high school,” said Amy Bosley, president of Northwest Vista College.
The first wave of teacher-trainees will start online classes this summer. Those enrolled in the one-year certificate track will begin teaching dual-credit as early as Fall 2026. Teachers opting for the full master’s program will be classroom-ready by 2027.
Students Win—Big Time
This program isn’t just a win for teachers—it’s a game-changer for students. Earning up to 15 university credits in high school could translate into finishing college faster, paying less in tuition, and entering the workforce sooner.
Data backs this up. According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, students who complete dual-credit courses are more likely to enroll in college and earn a degree on time.
Teaching for the Future
One major benefit of this initiative is its ripple effect on classroom instruction.
Frank Hernandez, a U.S. history teacher at East Central High School, sees it as an opportunity to deepen his expertise:
“I am going to grow as a teacher… It’s going to make me grow as an educator.”
Carmen Martinez, an English teacher at Jay High School and a first-gen college grad, understands the stakes for her students:
“My parents always said, ‘Mija, you’re going to go to college.’ But they didn’t know how to help me get there… That’s a story I hear again and again.”
By removing financial barriers to advanced credentials, the program gives teachers the tools they need to inspire the next generation.
Built on Community and Commitment
Chancellor Mike Flores called this initiative a “moonshot” mission, part of Alamo Colleges’ broader vision to reduce generational poverty. It’s a bold move aimed at systemic change—and one that hinges on collaboration with trusted partners like St. Mary’s.
“This is a transformative partnership,” said St. Mary’s President Winston Erevelles. “It brings together our Marianist values and a shared commitment to student success.”
FAQs
How much does the program cost teachers?
Nothing. Tuition and fees are fully covered by a $1.1 million investment from Alamo Colleges’ Student Success Fund.
What’s the teacher commitment?
Each participant agrees to teach dual-credit classes for at least three years. If they leave early, they may have to repay part of the tuition.
Can other districts join?
For now, it’s limited to Northside, North East, and East Central ISDs—but leaders hope to scale it county-wide.
