My daughter is a junior at Haltom High School and a CAB student (Collegiate Academy of Birdville). CAB students work towards obtaining both their high school diploma and associate's degree at the completion of high school. She has found solace and purpose in her soccer and other extracurricular activities. These experiences are an integral part of managing her mental health, as I am sure they are for many other students. Now, a decision by Birdville ISD threatens to disrupt her educational journey, leaving her deeply upset. The district has mandated that noCAB student will be allowed to play sports or take part in extracurricular activities at their high school. They will now be full time college students. These students will be missing out on a huge part of their adolescent and childhood experiences. 

Birdville ISD made a promise to provide a dual high school and college experience to current ninth, tenth, and eleventh-grade students. This enticing offer is more than an educational pathway; it is a commitment to our children’s future. However, a recent move by the district suggests that this promise could be put on the shelf.

Closer examination of relevant statistics indicates the importance of such programs. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, dual enrollment programs such as this have positive effects on students, including improved GPA, higher graduation rates, and increased postsecondary attainment.

But this is not just about statistics; it is about our children, their mental health, and their future. My daughter’s experience is a testament to the potential harm that could eventuate from disrupting this program’s continuity. This is our plea to Birdville ISD: uphold your promise and continue to provide a dual high school and college experience for our children. Please sign our petition to urge Birdville ISD to honor its commitment and protect our children's future.