For 27 former students, the dream of earning a high school diploma is now a reality.

Through United ISD’s Bridge Academy, students who once left school before graduating have completed their diploma requirements and are now pursuing college degrees, workforce certifications, and career opportunities they once thought were out of reach.

The innovative program, created through a partnership between United ISD, Laredo College, and Workforce Solutions for South Texas, is designed to reconnect former students with their educational goals and provide a pathway back to graduation.

Nine students recently crossed the stage during the program’s inaugural commencement ceremony, while an additional 18 graduates are set to be recognized during a summer graduation ceremony this August.

“When we launched this program, our goal was to reach those students who didn’t finish for various reasons and give them that second opportunity to finish what they started,” said UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz. “Seeing them cross that stage brought a tremendous sense of pride, not only for these students and their families but for our district as well. We want every student to have the opportunity to become successful adults.”

For many of the graduates, the journey back to a diploma was anything but easy.

Shanea Muñoz, a former Lyndon B. Johnson High School student shared how personal circumstances prevented her from graduating with the Class of 2024. Through the Bridge Academy, she was able to return back to school.

“I loved it. It was a great experience,” said Munoz. “I got the opportunity to get my diploma, and I’m very grateful for all of the staff and everyone because they helped me a lot.”

Today, Muñoz is looking ahead to a future she once feared might not be possible. She plans to earn an Associate of Science degree at Laredo College before transferring to Texas A&M International University to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian.

“I want to be a veterinarian and have my own clinic with affordable prices for our pets,” she shared.

Her accomplishment carries special meaning for her family.

“I did this for myself, my family, and my grandma Lichita,” said Munoz as she proudly displayed a graduation cap dedicated to her grandmother, who passed away last year. “She always told us, ‘Vayan a la escuela. No van a ganar nada sin la escuela.’ I’m thankful that my grandma got to see this from the sky.”

Shanea’s cap reads: “Esta va hasta el cielo en honor a mi abuelita Lichita.” 

For Victor Manuel Ramirez Jr., the opportunity to earn his diploma represented the fulfillment of a goal he never stopped chasing.

His mother, Margarita Ramirez shared how Victor’s educational journey was interrupted after he became seriously ill.

“Sadly, he got sick during the pandemic and wasn’t able to graduate,” she said. “He fell short, and it was very disappointing for him because that was his main goal.”

Despite the setback, Victor remained determined to earn his diploma.

When he learned he had successfully completed the required End-of-Course assessments, the relief was overwhelming.

“He never gave up on his dream of achieving his high school diploma,” his mother added.

Wearing his United South High School graduation gown with pride, Victor reflected on the moment.

“It was great,” he said with a smile. “It felt nice having this on, and I thought I looked cool.”

His mother says the program has been life-changing for students like her son and speaks passionately about its impact.

“I don’t have enough words to explain it, but it’s a magnificent program,” Ramirez shared. “I’m glad UISD is offering this.”

Victor pictured with his mother and sister.

Students enrolled in the Bridge Academy complete their remaining graduation requirements while attending classes at Laredo College South. Learning in a college environment not only allows them to finish their high school coursework, but also introduces them to higher education opportunities, career certifications, and workforce pathways.

Bridge Academy Coordinator Michele Lopez says every graduate’s journey is unique, but they all share one thing in common-perseverance.

“Behind every diploma is a story of grit, growth, and resilience,” said Lopez. “We are immensely proud of our graduates who overcame individual challenges to reach this achievement. As they take on the world and pursue their post-secondary goals, we wish them nothing but the absolute best.”

The program is intentionally designed to meet students where they are by offering flexible scheduling, credit recovery opportunities, and support with End-of-Course assessments.

“For many students, they were only a few classes away from earning their diploma,” Lopez said. “We want them to know that UISD is here to support them and help them.”

Beginning this coming school year, the opportunity will expand beyond former UISD students. Any individual between the ages of 18 and 25 who has not earned a high school diploma may apply to attend the Bridge Academy at no cost.

For more information about the Bridge Academy, call 956-473-2114, email ntleteam@uisd.net, or scan the QR code on the flyer below.

 

 

Bridge Academy’s Inaugural Graduating Class (4 of 9 pictured) and Staff .