Published September 28, 2021

Beginning with the 2021-2022 school year, EMS ISD high school seniors who graduate in the top 25 percent of their graduating classes will be eligible for annual scholarships and guaranteed admission at Tarleton State University.

As part of the program, called the Distinguished High School Partnership, Tarleton will waive ACT or SAT requirements for students in the top 25 percent of their graduating classes at Boswell, Chisholm Trail and Saginaw high schools, and the future Eagle Mountain High School. Tarleton also will waive application fees for those who qualify. The university will offer scholarships of at least $1,000 each year to EMS ISD’s top graduates.

The Eagle Mountain-Saginaw Independent School District and Tarleton leaders cemented the agreement last week.

“We firmly believe that students in the top 25 percent at Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD’s high schools are prepared to succeed,” said Tarleton President James Hurley. “This partnership allows them guaranteed admission and is the next step in strengthening our relationship to provide a high-quality university experience to students in our extended area.”

Dr. Jim F. Chadwell, EMS ISD Superintendent, said the partnership with Tarleton is a significant and unique benefit for the district’s top-performing students.

“Our desire is for every EMS ISD graduate to have the opportunities they need to pursue a lifetime of continuous learning and achievement,” he said. “This distinguished partnership with Tarleton will open doors for our students to take the next steps in achieving their dreams and preparing them to succeed in the world that awaits.”

This is EMS ISD’s first agreement for top 25 percent guaranteed admission with a Texas university and will be in effect for the Class of 2022. District leaders are working to partner with additional college and universities to expand post-secondary academic opportunities for future graduates.

A founding member of The Texas A&M University System, Tarleton offers degree programs for nearly 14,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Midlothian, RELLIS Academic Alliance in Bryan, and online programs. Tarleton's teaching and research-based programs emphasize real-world learning that addresses regional needs while sustaining the values of excellence, integrity and respect.