Foundation stone laid for University Academy in McAllen

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and McAllen ISD broke ground on the UTRGV-McAllen ISD College Academy .

This project will open its doors in 2024 and will help students maintain a transition from high school to college.

This is a landmark partnership that will give McAllen high school students a head start in their pursuit of a bachelor's degree, allowing them to earn their degree at no cost.

Students will be able to choose one of four areas of study: health sciences, computer science, engineering, or education, or focus on completing their academic core.

At the dedication ceremony, UTRGV President Guy Bailey said the university's role in the association allows students to gain opportunities at home in the Rio Grande Valley.

“This is a beautiful partnership and it is the perfect alignment to give our students the same opportunity that they could have in the wealthiest school districts in the United States,” Bailey said.

“These college high schools are unique right now and we had them here for the first time in the Rio Grande Valley. These opportunities make a difference for all of us. They are important to the quality of our lives. This is a game changer in many ways.”

The facility will be located at 1400 N. Commerce Center St., a 38-acre property at the corner of Pecan Boulevard and McColl Road.

The first generation of students will officially start in the fall of 2024.