Texas High School Celebrates First Texas First Graduate Gavin Ingham

Texarkana, TX —Texas High School junior Gavin Ingham has been named Texas High School’s first Texas First Graduate, earning this distinction through the Texas First Program, a state initiative that recognizes high-achieving students who demonstrate college readiness and complete rigorous academic requirements ahead of schedule.

Through the program, eligible students may graduate early with the Distinguished Level of Achievement and receive a scholarship to attend a Texas public college, university, or technical college. Students who graduate two or more semesters early may receive a two-semester scholarship equivalent to the amount of the TEXAS Grant, while students graduating one semester early may receive a one-semester scholarship.

Ingham is graduating a year early with the Distinguished Level of Achievement and has also completed an Associate of Arts in General Studies from Texarkana College with 65 college credit hours. His academic accomplishments include membership in the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and Spanish National Honor Society, as well as recognition as a UT Tyler Honors Scholars Scholarship recipient and a Superintendent PSAT Scholar.

In addition to his academic success, Ingham has been involved in UIL Science, served as a student office aide, participated as a STEM judge, and volunteered in school and community activities. His interests include independent Spanish study, technology and 3D modeling, culinary arts, music, gardening, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

He plans to attend The University of Texas at Tyler, where he intends to pursue a double major in psychology and political science on a pre-med track.

“Gavin has taken advantage of the opportunities available to him and has worked hard to position himself for success after high school,” said Principal Ben Renner of Texas High School. “Graduating early while earning college credit hours is a significant accomplishment, and we are proud of the example he has set for other students.”

The Texas First Program is designed to keep Texas’ highest-achieving students on a direct path to postsecondary education in Texas. Eligibility includes Texas residency, completion of financial aid application requirements, at least 22 high school credits, a final GPA equivalent to 3.0 or higher, college-readiness measures, STAAR participation or approved substitutes, and demonstrated mastery in core subject areas.

“Gavin’s achievement reflects his commitment to academics and the support he has received from his family and teachers throughout his educational journey,” said Associate Principal of College and Career Readiness, Erin Davis. “This is an outstanding accomplishment, and we are excited to see what he accomplishes next.”

As Texas High School’s first Texas First Graduate, Ingham sets an example for students interested in pursuing advanced academic opportunities and accelerated pathways through
Texarkana ISD.

For more information about the Texas First Program, visit the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board website.