More than 100 students in Caddo Parish Public Schools graduated from high school this year with a college degree already in hand.
Before walking across the stage to receive their diplomas, members of the district’s Class of 2026 earned a combined 106 associate degrees through a partnership with Southern University at Shreveport.
District leaders say the accomplishment reflects a growing emphasis on dual enrollment, workforce development and college readiness across Caddo Parish.
The associate degree earners come from six district schools. Woodlawn High School led the district with 43 students earning degrees, followed by Huntington High School with 32 students. Green Oaks Performing Arts Academy had 17 students complete associate degrees, while Booker T. Washington High School had 12 students earn degrees. One student each from Southwood High School and Pathways in Education also completed associate degrees before graduation.
Through the partnership with Southern University at Shreveport, students have been able to complete college coursework while still enrolled in high school. District officials say the program allows students to accelerate their postsecondary education while reducing the time and cost often associated with earning a college degree.
The milestone comes as Caddo Schools continues expanding opportunities for students through dual enrollment programs, early college pathways and career-focused workforce training.
In addition to earning college credit, students can pursue industry based credentials and participate in work based learning opportunities designed to prepare them for careers in high demand industries.
District leaders say the approach is intended to ensure graduates leave high school with multiple options for their future, whether that includes entering college, joining the workforce or doing both simultaneously.
“This is what preparing students for the future looks like,” Superintendent Keith Burton said. “We want every graduate to leave Caddo with momentum, whether that means stepping onto a college campus with a number of credits already earned, entering the workforce with valuable credentials or pursuing both.”
Officials say the district’s expanding academic and workforce initiatives are helping students gain a competitive advantage before graduating high school.
By combining traditional coursework with college level instruction and hands on career training, the district hopes to strengthen long term outcomes for students throughout the parish.
This article was originall published in the June 2026 issue of Three 18 Insider magazine.
