Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Spring Woods High School welcomes first Tiger College Academy cohort

May 7, 2025 10:45 AM

Spring Woods High School (SWHS) recently launched its new Tiger College Academy (TCA), welcoming 48 students into the program’s first-ever cohort.

Students, families, campus leaders, and district officials gathered for a special breakfast to celebrate the launch of Tiger College Academy and to recognize the group that will be the first at SWHS to graduate through the early college program — earning both a high school diploma and an associate degree at no cost to their families. Representatives from Houston Community College (HCC) and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Blaine were on hand to mark the occasion.

Tiger College Academy offers students a chance to earn up to 60 hours of college credit through a combination of HCC dual credit and University of Texas OnRamps courses, all while staying connected to the full high school experience at Spring Woods.

"Today is a proud moment for our campus and for our students," said Spring Woods Principal Stephanie Meshell. "Tiger College Academy is about believing in yourself, taking on new challenges, and knowing you have a team behind you. I couldn’t be prouder of our students and what they’re already achieving."

During the event, Dr. Blaine spoke to the students and families, encouraging them to embrace the opportunities ahead.

"By stepping into Tiger College Academy, you are saying yes to your dreams and yes to your future," Dr. Blaine said. "You’re showing that success isn’t about giving something up — it’s about pushing yourself to do even more. I can’t wait to see where this takes you."

In a surprise moment, Spring Woods staff presented Dr. Blaine with the school’s symbolic "Key to Success," an honor typically given during faculty meetings. The key was awarded for her vision and leadership in supporting the creation of an early college program in SBISD.

The launch of Tiger College Academy reflects SBISD’s work to ensure every student is T-2-4 ready while still getting the most out of their high school years. TCA is the second early college program in SBISD. Northbrook High School (NHS) opened its RISE College Academy last year and recently welcomed its second group of students.