The Phoenix continues rising at Hector J. Garcia Early College High School (GECHS), as U.S. News and World Report once again named the Laredo Independent School District’s GECHS as one of the best high schools in the nation in their 2024 Best High School Rankings. GECHS was ranked as the 23rd best high school in the State of Texas and the 153rd best high school in the nation.
U.S. News and World Report, the global authority in ranking and consumer advice, collected data from nearly 25,000 public high schools from across the country. In addition to traditional high schools, the rankings encompass charter; magnet, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics focused schools. Schools were ranked within their state and nationally based on six indicators of school quality including college readiness, college curriculum breadth, math and reading proficiency, math and reading performance, underserved student performance, and graduation rate. The highest ranked schools are those whose students excelled on state tests and performed beyond expectations, participated in and passed a variety of college-level-exams, and graduated in high proportions.
““Hector J. Garcia Early College High School’s ranking of 23rd in Texas and 153rd nationally reflects the dedication of its students and staff, said Maggie Taboada GECHS Principal. “I commend the students, parents, teachers, and staff for their commitment and pursuit of academic success.””
The GECHS is the only high school in Laredo and Webb County to earn this ranking.
“Laredo ISD is very proud of the exemplary accomplishments achieved by the students and staff at the Garcia Early College High School,” said Dr. Sylvia Rios, LISD Superintendent. “The Garcia Early College High School continues to be one of the top-rated high schools in the state and nationally, while leading the way by producing self-motivated college-bound students.”
The Hector J. Garcia Early College High School allows students to finish high school and their first two years of college simultaneously while accumulating college hours at Texas A & M International University. Many GECHS graduates finish high school with more than 60 hours of university credit. Students choose a college major and begin taking required coursework towards completing their degree while fulfilling high school graduation requirements with tuition and books provided by LISD.
The GECHS was named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2017 and 2023, and is one of a few schools located on the grounds of a four-year university. The GECHS currently serves 382 students. The GECHS Class of 2024 will be graduating 97 students, according to Taboada.