Plano, Texas, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Plano Independent School District is set to launch a new Electrical Engineering Academy in collaboration with East Texas A&M University, beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. This program aims to provide students with early exposure to electrical engineering concepts and the opportunity to earn up to 53 college credit hours. The initial enrollment will include 120 spots for incoming ninth graders, who will complete their education at both Jasper High School and Plano West Senior High School. This initiative aligns with the district’s goal of enhancing educational opportunities for students.
Plano, Texas – Plano Independent School District (ISD) has announced the introduction of a new Electrical Engineering Academy, set to commence in the 2026-2027 school year. This initiative has been made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding with East Texas A&M University.
The academy was approved during the Board of Trustees’ work session on September 25, 2025, and will be hosted at both Jasper High School and Plano West Senior High School. This program aims to provide students with early exposure to engineering concepts and hands-on learning experiences.
Students enrolled in the Electrical Engineering Academy will have the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit beginning in their junior year. Participants can complete up to 53 college credit hours by graduation, of which six are dedicated specifically to electrical engineering.
The academy will initially accept 120 spots for incoming ninth graders across Plano ISD. Students will spend their first two years at Jasper High School and will transition to Plano West as juniors and seniors to complete the program.
The eligibility requirements for students have been outlined as part of the program launch to ensure that interested candidates meet specific criteria to benefit from this educational pathway.
Dr. Lauren Tyra, the Board President, emphasized the district’s commitment to providing multiple opportunities for students to be ready for college, career, the military, and life. This initiative aligns with Plano ISD’s goal of establishing an academy in each senior high school cluster, which builds upon existing programs such as health sciences at Plano East and collegiate studies at Plano Senior High.
Additionally, Dr. Mark Rudin, President of East Texas A&M University, stated that the partnership presents a powerful opportunity for students to earn college credit while exploring potential career paths in engineering. This collaborative effort between the university and the school district is set to significantly enhance educational opportunities for local high school students.
Overall, the launch of the Electrical Engineering Academy is a significant milestone for Plano ISD, aimed at fostering a strong foundation for students aspiring to enter the fields of engineering and technology.
Key Features of the Electrical Engineering Academy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Year | 2026-2027 |
| Location | Jasper High School, Plano West Senior High School |
| College Credits Offered | Up to 53 college credit hours, including 6 in electrical engineering |
| Initial Enrollment | 120 spots for incoming ninth graders |
| Program Structure | First two years at Jasper, last two years at Plano West |
| Educational Focus | Hands-on learning, early engineering exposure |
FAQ
What is the Electrical Engineering Academy?
The Electrical Engineering Academy is a program launching in the 2026-2027 school year through a partnership between Plano ISD and East Texas A&M University, focusing on electrical engineering and hands-on learning.
Where will the academy be hosted?
The academy will be hosted at Jasper High School and Plano West Senior High School.
When was the program approved?
The program was approved during the Board of Trustees’ work session on September 25, 2025.
How many college credit hours can students earn?
Participants can complete up to 53 college credit hours by graduation, including six dedicated to electrical engineering.
Who can enroll in the academy?
The academy will open with 120 spots available for incoming ninth graders across Plano ISD.
What is the program’s structure?
Students will spend their first two years at Jasper High School before completing the program at Plano West as juniors and seniors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Community Impact: Plano ISD to Launch Electrical Engineering Academy
- Wikipedia: Electrical Engineering
- Local Profile: Plano ISD & Texas A&M Partnership
- Google Search: Electrical Engineering Academy Plano ISD
- Star Local Media: Plano ISD Launch Electrical Engineering Academy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Engineering Education
- Plano Magazine: Electrical Engineering Academy Approved
- Google News: Plano ISD Engineering Academy
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