Socorro ISD advanced academies, CTE programs, and early college high schools have openings for motivated incoming freshmen and sophomores interested in career, early college, and specialized instruction opportunities. Interested students may apply for a lottery to secure a spot in the following available programs. Click on this link to apply for the program of your choice.
Early College High Schools
Socorro, El Dorado and Americas early college high school programs have slots available for students interested in completing high school and college courses simultaneously. Students will join a grade-level cohort and work toward college readiness. Once they achieve this readiness, they can begin taking college-level courses. Students have the opportunity to earn an associate degree from El Paso Community College, and some may also earn additional college credits during their senior year through the University of Texas at El Paso.
Libertas Academy for Law, Government, and Public Administration at Americas High School
The Libertas Academy is part of SISD’s Advanced Academic Programs and is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in government, public administration, or law. This unique program is one of only four programs of its kind in Texas and the only one in El Paso. The instructors in the Law and Legal pathway are licensed attorneys who provide rigorous instruction and hands-on activities that enhance the understanding of the legal system and legal processes. With a courtroom on-site, the Libertas program immerses students in real-world scenarios that support the learning objectives.
Aztec Architecture Academy and International Baccalaureate (IB) at El Dorado High School
The Aztec Architectural Academy is the only program of its kind in the El Paso region that prepares aspiring architects for successful careers in architecture. This rigorous, hands-on program provides students with a solid foundation in interior design, construction, civil engineering and architecture. Students will learn the general codes and construction guidelines necessary for designing both residential and industrial structures, as well as design concepts and theory. They will become proficient using a multitude of industry standard digital design and presentation tools. Much of the learning occurs through project design, which is showcased in competitive events. As a result, the academy’s students have gained recognition across the Southwest. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to successfully pursue a bachelor's degree in architecture at any accredited institution.
International Baccalaureate (IB) is known for academic rigor that will prepare students for the demands of higher education and is recognized by many universities worldwide, providing students with an internationally accepted qualification for higher education. IB aims to develop students' academic, social, and emotional characteristics, preparing them for success in higher education and beyond. Students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and take ownership of their learning. IB teachers typically use the Socratic method of teaching, which uses a dialogue between teacher and student, with the teacher asking probing questions to explore the student's beliefs and opinions, ultimately fostering critical thinking. This program also aims to develop internationally minded people who are aware of their place in the world and who are committed to making a positive difference. The IB program is one for students who strive for educational challenges and would like to grow their skills for inquiry and reasoning as well as abstract thinking.
School for Advanced Technical Applications (SATA) at Eastlake High School
Students interested in an exciting career in the rapidly growing field of computer science can get a head start at Eastlake High School's School for Advanced Technical Applications (SATA). The program offers a four-year pathway in computer science, which includes an introduction to Java and Python, with an emphasis on cyber security. Additionally, there are opportunities to earn dual credit for college courses.
Students who are accepted to the advanced academies and early college high schools at Americas, El Dorado and Eastlake may attend bridge camps in June, but students do not have to attend to enroll. The bridge camps provide students with a supportive experience to ease their transition into the academy and help them understand what is required to succeed in the program.
Animal Sciences at El Dorado High School
The Animal Sciences program in Agricultural Sciences at El Dorado High School prepares students for training and testing for veterinary technician certification. Students will begin their careers in animal sciences in state-of-the-art facilities and can earn certification internship hours at local veterinary clinics.
Teacher Preparation at El Dorado, Americas, Montwood and Socorro high schools
Students interested in a career in education can pursue an associate degree in teaching at El Dorado, Americas, Montwood, or Socorro high schools. Through the teacher preparation program, students will earn college credits toward an Associate of Arts degree in teaching from El Paso Community College. Internships are offered at local elementary schools, and participants will become eligible for state teacher aide certification. This certification may provide an opportunity to work full-time with benefits while completing a bachelor’s degree. The associate degree is transferable to any state college or university, allowing students to enter any programs. The teaching skills learned are applicable across many professions.
NJROTC at Socorro, El Dorado and Americas
Students interested in the NJROTC program can apply at Socorro, Americas, or El Dorado high schools. The program provides a unique curriculum focused on leadership, citizenship, naval operations, and maritime heritage. Students engage in classroom instruction complemented by activities like drill competitions, athletics, field trips, and community service. The program emphasizes education by promoting high school graduation, preparing students for college admissions tests, and inspiring 60% of cadets nationwide to pursue higher education. Participants benefit from improved behavior, attendance, teamwork, self-discipline, and life skills, and may qualify for advanced enlistment rank after three years or nominations to prestigious institutions like the U.S. Naval Academy. NJROTC also offers specialized teams, scholarships for completing the program, and opportunities to grow in a structured, supportive environment without a commitment to the military.
Apply for the program of your choice today!
Join Socorro ISD and explore our endless opportunities! The best part? There are no costs for enrollment, books, or certifications for most programs. Please use this link to apply for the program of your choice.
For more information, please contact the Director for Career and Technical Education Programs at (915) 937-0303.