Copperas Cove ISD is celebrating a historic milestone as 34 Copperas Cove High School students prepare to graduate from Central Texas College (CTC) on Friday night before earning their high school diplomas later this month. This event marks the largest graduating class in the district’s dual credit and early college program, showcasing the students’ dedication and the district’s commitment to higher education opportunities.

CTC’s commencement will take place at Cadence Bank Center in Belton at 6:30 p.m., where these ambitious students will walk the stage, having earned at least one associate degree or industry certification through the district’s partnership with CTC.

Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins praised the students, stating:
“To have this many students become college graduates before earning their high school diplomas speaks to the type of students we have in Copperas Cove. Each of these 34 students has taken the first step toward a successful life after high school, and we could not be more proud of them. I look forward to celebrating this achievement with them.”

Among the graduates are remarkable students whose dedication has paid off:

• Thalia-Marie Jackson earned associate degrees in general studies and interdisciplinary studies, embracing the challenge as preparation for college-level responsibility.
• Nayyab Khan completed an associate degree in general studies and hopes to work on satellites, drawn to the fascinating world of data collection and imagery.
• Emily Kimball earned an associate degree in general studies, making history as the first person in her family to achieve this milestone in high school.
• Corbin Macik secured both a certification in robotics technology and an associate degree in general studies, emphasizing how his early college start has helped him save on tuition costs.
• Daniel Manning, Kyleigh Mata, Madison McPhail, and Kristene Mejia each earned associate degrees, with diverse aspirations ranging from athletic training to nursing and even psychology focused on military service members.
• Kynnerly Minus and Eva Northrop completed associate degrees in general studies and interdisciplinary studies, proving to themselves and others that determination leads to success.

These outstanding students join a trailblazing group of peers who have earned multiple degrees and certifications, including achievements in welding, robotics technology, information technology, and business administration.

During the 2024-25 school year, CCISD students collectively earned 5,335 college credits, further highlighting the success of the dual credit program. With these 34 graduates, the district will have 46 students who completed certifications or associate degrees this year.

CCISD continues to expand its partnerships, already working with Tarleton State University, Ranger College, and McMurry University, with Lamar State College Orange and Texas State Technical College joining in 2025-26.

Following their CTC graduation on May 9, these students will return to Cadence Bank Center for Coppe ras Cove High School’s graduation on May 23 at 7:30 p.m.

Their achievements serve as an inspiration, proving that with determination and access to strong educational programs, students can reach new heights—before they even leave high school.