Burleson schools, Tarleton State finalize agreement to help college-bound seniors
Tarleton State University has agreed to a partnership with the Burleson Independent School District, which includes guaranteed admission and annual scholarships for the high school’s top graduating seniors for the next four years.
Admission and scholarships will be offered to the top 25% of the district’s high school graduates beginning with the 2020-21 school year. The Classes of 2022, 2023 and 2024 will also be eligible. The districts four high schools are Burleson, Burleson Collegiate, Centennial and Crossroads.
Called the Distinguished High School Partnership, Tarleton State will also waive ACT (American College Test) or SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) requirements for students in the top quarter of their class and application fees for students who qualify.
“Our reputation for student focus and big-effect undergraduate research is growing,” Tarleton president James Hurley said in a press release. “With that comes our ability to attract high school seniors who want more than classroom knowledge. They want know-how. This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide a high-quality experience to students in our own backyard.”
TSU will also continue to work with other school districts in the area to finalize similar agreements.
“As BISD pursues student opportunities for higher education, we appreciate the partnership and the opportunities Tarleton provides for Burleson graduates to pursue their college degree,” said BISD Superintendent Dr. Bret Jimerson. “Each year, Tarleton is a top school selected by our BISD graduates. This partnership simplifies the acceptance process and alleviates the stress that can accompany taking the next step to pursue higher education.”
The Guaranteed Award Program (GAP) assures first-time-in-college students graduating in the top quarter of their high school class between $1,000 and $4,000 in scholarships.
Students graduating from one of Tarleton’s Distinguished High School Partners will receive an additional $500 or $1,000. Admitted freshmen must submit a general scholarship application to determine eligibility.
This story was originally published July 14, 2020 at 5:00 AM.
