Longview ISD Partners with Kilgore College and UT Tyler to Expand Educational Opportunities for Local Students
October 28, 2025
In a significant development for educational access in East Texas, Longview Independent School District (LISD), Kilgore College, and The University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) have formally established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at creating new avenues for students in the region. This landmark collaboration seeks to facilitate a seamless transition from high school to college, empowering students to earn college credit and complete their degrees while still in high school.
The MOU signing marks the commencement of a comprehensive multi-year initiative designed to enhance educational pathways for Longview students. The agreement promotes a dual-enrollment program, allowing high school seniors to take college courses, thus accelerating their academic journey. Following the MOU signing, the three institutions hosted two family engagement events, attracting hundreds of parents and students keen to explore the new higher education opportunities now available to them.
Dr. Marla Sheppard, the superintendent of Longview ISD, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, stating, “Our goal is college and career—with every Longview graduate equipped to earn a degree and step confidently into their future. By placing students on a college campus as juniors, supporting first-generation scholars, and removing financial barriers, we’re changing expectations for what’s possible in East Texas.”
As part of this new initiative, Longview High School will introduce an Early College program in conjunction with Kilgore College. Starting in the fall of 2026, the program is expected to enroll 75 juniors, who will undertake college classes at Kilgore College, enabling them to potentially accumulate up to 60 college credit hours towards an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree.
Dr. Staci Martin, president of Kilgore College, remarked, “This is a true early-college experience. Hosting Longview students on our campus builds a college-going mindset, saves families time and money, and positions them to complete an associate degree. It’s a model that gives our students a real advantage in pursuing their educational dreams.”
Additionally, the partnership establishes clear pathways for transferring to UT Tyler, facilitating enrollment in bachelor’s degree programs, including the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS), which align with the workforce needs of the region. Dr. Julie Philley, president of UT Tyler, affirmed the university’s commitment, stating, “Through strong academic advising, comprehensive student support services, and an engaging campus experience, we are committed to making our degrees more accessible and achievable for all students.”
In conjunction with the MOU signing, LISD hosted its inaugural Early College Parent Meeting, which introduced families to the program details, transportation logistics, and academic advising. Furthermore, a districtwide event known as Lobo College Night drew hundreds of families, featuring representatives from both Kilgore College and UT Tyler. This event offered valuable information on college admissions, scholarships, housing, and readiness, reflecting LISD’s dedication to fostering early college awareness among its students.
Key highlights of the partnership include:
– Early College at Kilgore College: 75 juniors will begin dual enrollment, able to earn up to 60 college credit hours before graduating high school.
– Seamless Transfer to UT Tyler: Strategically aligned degree maps and early advising processes will support efficient and affordable completion of four-year degrees.
– Family Engagement: Joint sessions on financial aid, housing, and admissions will be conducted each semester by Longview ISD, Kilgore College, and UT Tyler.
– Ongoing Evaluation: Regular joint meetings will gauge progress and ensure the program’s evolution in alignment with student needs.
This collaborative initiative signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing educational opportunities for students in East Texas, underscoring the commitment of Longview ISD, Kilgore College, and UT Tyler to empower the next generation of learners and leaders.
