Twenty Falcon Early College High School seniors and their parents attended the Falcon ECHS Senior Orientation at Odessa College on Tuesday, July 23. The guests enjoyed dinner before being introduced to OC President Gregory Williams and OC administrators, new ECISD Director of Early College High School Gerardo Ramirez, Falcon ECHS Dean of Students Rene Barrientes, and OCTECHS Dean of Students Tyler Press. UTPB President Sandra Woodley was unable to be present, but addressed the goup through a recorded video. During the evening’s event, the audience was presented information about the new Falcon Early College High School on the OC Campus, what the students could look forward to, what they could expect, and the high standard of education that they are receiving. Dr. Williams also reminded the audience that these students will receive their associate degree and their high school diploma when they complete this final year in Falcon ECHS. UTPB President Woodley announced that when these Falcon ECHS students graduate, if they choose to complete their bachelor degree at UTPB, the university would cover the remaining cost for their degree after all financial aid was applied.
During the second half of the event, the seniors met with their Student Success Coaches. The parents were taken on a walking tour to acquaint them with the OC campus and Deaderick Hall, where the students will take most of their classes. The second floor of Deaderick Hall is currently being renovated to accommodate the new school when the fall semester begins.