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Keys Academy Reimagined: HARLINGEN CISD highlights short‑term program that fast-tracks students to graduation
Summary
District staff described the reopened Keys Academy as a small‑setting, accelerated program with flexible intake and extended hours; presenters said 55 students passed through the program this year and 18 have graduated so far.
The HARLINGEN CISD Transforming Teaching and Learning Committee heard April 30 about Keys Academy Reimagined, a small‑setting program the district reopened in fall 2024 to help students catch up and graduate.
"This is exactly what Keyes is, a sense of belonging for all students," said Sylvia Gonzalez, director for family and community engagement, describing the program's focus on individualized support and campus connection.
Gonzalez said Keys Academy opened about 32 years ago and reopened this past September; it operates Monday through Friday with two daily cohorts (an AM session, 8:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m., and a PM session, 12:15 p.m.–4:15 p.m.). The program has 40 seats at a time; Gonzalez described rolling intake: when a student completes the program or returns to their home campus, the district opens the seat for another student. "Once a student graduates, a slot opens up... by the next day, we talk, we get the kids the students in, and they're ready and set to go," Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez gave year‑to‑date numbers: 55 students have participated in Keys Academy this year; of those, 18 already have graduated and another eight were close to completing requirements pending STAAR or final credits. She said staff are still seeing additional completions, noting one student finished on the day of the presentation.
The program maintains campus ties: counselors and campus staff screen and recommend students; Keys staff confirm family buy‑in and intake. The site offers extended hours Monday–Thursday until 8:30 p.m. for students who need extra time to complete coursework. Gonzalez and panelists credited counselors such as Miss Chavez and teacher Mr. Garza with hands‑on campus outreach and daily support.
Board members praised the program and recommended exploring adult‑education and community partnerships to expand family services. During discussion, one board member suggested partnering with regional higher‑education institutions to add adult classes or certificate pathways for parents and community members; Gonzalez said the district already offers some GED and ESL classes and is exploring additional certificate options such as welding and computer classes.
No formal decisions were made by the committee; presenters said Keys Academy will continue to be evaluated and adjusted to keep the program small enough to preserve individualized supports while meeting demand.
