Aldine ISD, UHD, and Lone Star College Launch Cybersecurity Degree Pathway With 2+2 Program

Disponible en:

AISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, UHD President Dr. Loren Blanchard, UHD Provost Dr. Deborah E. Bordelon, and Chancellor of Lone Star College System Mario K. Castillo, J.D. (l-r),sign the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on April 29, 2025.

A new partnership between Aldine ISD, Lone Star College, and the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is creating a direct path to a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity for high school students — and removing common barriers along the way.

On Tuesday morning, district and college leaders signed a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at UHD to mark the launch of the 2+2 Cybersecurity Pathway. The innovative program allows students to earn a high school diploma, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree through a seamless academic experience supported by all three institutions.

“We believe in building bridges, not roadblocks,” said Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney. “This partnership gives our students a powerful opportunity to advance their education and careers — especially in a high-demand, high-wage field like cybersecurity.”

Goffney, Blanchard, and Castillo (l-r) pose for a group picture representing their respective educational institutions — Aldine ISD, the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD), and Lone Star College. Click on the image to see the story that aired on KHOU-Channel 11.

The program will begin at Avalos P-TECH School, where students can pursue a cybersecurity pathway in partnership with Lone Star College. Students can earn a cybersecurity AAS degree. Students will not only graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree, but also be able to then transition directly into UHD’s cybersecurity program to complete their bachelor’s degree.

The idea began last spring when the leaders of Aldine ISD, UHD, and Lone Star College met to discuss a shared vision for student success. State Rep. Armando Walle helped initiate the conversation, highlighting the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals and the need for stronger connections between education and industry.

“Our goal is to provide additional choices and opportunities for students,” said Dr. Adrian Bustillos, Aldine ISD’s Chief Transformation Officer. “We want our students to continue their academic journey in cybersecurity and have access to real-world internships and support along the way.”

In attendance with the Aldine ISD group were (l-r) Lizette Garza, Office of Transformation executive assistant; Dr. Dawn Ayers-Rodríguez, chief of accountability, assessment, and analytics; Chief of Schools Dr. Javier Villarreal; Chief Human Resources Officer Marcia Herrera; Aldine ISD Board Member Dr. Viola M. García; Superintendent Goffney; AISD Board Member Connie Esparza; Chief Communications Officer Sheila Adams; Avalos P-TECH School Principal Stephen Heady; and Chief Transformation Officer Adrian Bustillos.

The 2+2 model aligns with Aldine ISD’s Portrait of a Graduate. This vision prepares students to be critical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible citizens. The framework calls for bold, systemic partnerships that ensure students graduate college, career, and military ready (CCMR) — and thrive in a global workforce.

“This partnership shows what’s possible when K–12, higher education, and policymakers come together to break down silos,” Goffney said.

All three institutions are also working to provide “concierge services” — personalized guidance to help students navigate each phase of the program.

The long-term vision includes expanding the 2+2 model to additional fields beyond cybersecurity.

“We’re optimistic this is just the beginning,” Bustillos said. “We believe this model can be replicated and scaled to create an even greater impact for our students and their futures.”

The program’s first cohort will begin in the upcoming school year.

[Show as slideshow]