Frequently Asked Questions

1 

How old do I need to be to enroll at New Heights?

New Heights accepts all students ages 18-50 regardless of educational background and/or personal experiences. For example, if you turn 18 on December 3, you are eligible to start at the beginning of our next term (see district calendar for four-term start dates). Students have until their 51st birthday to graduate.

2

Do I have to start high school all over?

No. You start with the transferrable credits you have earned based on your transcript. New Heights' staff attains your transcript and works with your advising coach to create a personal graduation plan. Some students start with zero credits, others have 20. We accept and support all students in pursuing high school, industry credentials, and college.

3

What will it cost me to attend New Heights?

Our students pay nothing to attend New Heights. Educational programming, career training and certifications, and college credit are free to all students while enrolled. We provide full-wrap-around services and resources for subsidized or free support services, including child care, transportation, and mental health counseling. 

4

Do I have to come to school all day M-F?

Not if it doesn't work for your schedule. We have multiple scheduling options that include full-time, part-time, day, and evening classes. You can take one class or six, depending on what works best for you. Click here to view the daily schedule. 

5

How will I be learning?

New Heights offers a teacher-led, collaborative, project-based, and relevant curriculum that meets Texas State Standards and employer needs. You will learn alongside teachers and your peers in an interactive environment, with attendance requirements for your scheduled classes. This is not an online program.

6

Can I really earn an Industry-Based Credential and/or college credit? 

Yes! Thanks to our partnership with Tarrant County College, all New Heights students have access to in-demand industry-based credentials that result in great careers and college-credit classes that can lead to an Associate's Degree. Our unique program allows you to do high school and career certification classes at the same time!

7

Do you offer bilingual classes? 

No. All of our classes are in English, so our school might not be the right place for you yet. We offer English language support, but we do not exclusively offer specific programming for English language learners. Our students must have a level of English fluency to progress, as our classes, the state STAAR assessments, and TCC's career and college classes are in English. Come by our campus to meet with our team so we can suggest the best path for you.

8

Where do I have to live in order to attend New Heights?

Everyone is welcome regardless of where you live, although you must attend classes in person at our campus at 5901 Fitzhugh Avenue in the historic "Stop Six" neighborhood of Fort Worth. Don't let getting to school keep you away; we will help with transportation barriers. 

9

Is New Heights a public school?

Yes. New Heights is authorized by the Texas Education Agency as a Subchapter G Adult High School Charter. We follow the public school education code and regulations as outlined in the statute for adult high schools. We do not take resources from K-12 districts and, in fact, partner with many to support education for families and generational impact. 

10

How long will it take me to graduate? 

It depends. Every student has a unique journey per your individual graduation plan based on educational level, credits earned, and career goals. In your first term, you will work with your advising coach to develop your roadmap. Your graduation timeline will also be influenced by your availability and attendance. There is no right or wrong journey, and everyone is respected.

11

Do I need to take STAAR?

Yes. All students are required to take English, Biology, and Algebra to graduate. If you have taken and passed, you will not have to retake. We know testing can cause anxiety, but don't worry—we will give you all the support you need to take these state tests successfully. 

12

Will I have Thanksgiving, winter, and spring break off?

Yes. You will have days off throughout the year, including federal holidays, a week for Thanksgiving, three weeks for winter holidays, and a week for spring break. Our annual calendar is built in alignment with local school districts and Tarrant County College (TCC) so our students can be available for their school-age children and families and can also take TCC classes. Click here to see the New Heights calendar. 

13

Is there a graduation ceremony?

Yes! We love to celebrate all of our students as they achieve throughout the year, and we look forward to a big, exciting graduation ceremony each spring that welcomes all students and families. Be ready to put on your gown, walk the stage to accept your diploma, and throw your cap! Your proud family and friends will be your biggest fans!

14

What kind of support is available to me?

We believe in supporting you as a whole person. We know that juggling your many responsibilities and school can be a challenge. Your advising coach will work with you to meet your evolving needs, including access to childcare, transportation, mental health counseling, jobs, basic needs, food assistance, and more. 

15

Are you working with the business community?

Yes! We are focused on a high school diploma AND. That means partnering with businesses and industries to ensure the classes we are offering match their hiring needs and securing access for direct hiring. Our Community Advisory Committee and team are working to build these pathways and relationships. If you are interested in partnering with us, please contact us at nhpartners@newheightsed.com.

16

I have completed my initial enrollment, now what?

We are so excited that you have enrolled with us -- Congratulations! Within a week of submitting your enrolment, an Admission or Advising Coach will contact you to get to know you better. They want to learn more about your specific scheduling requirements and availability, follow up on any support needs you indicated on your form, schedule your 90-minute student orientation, and share what you will need to bring with you to complete the process and get your schedule. Don't worry, it's easy.

17

When can I come by the campus?

We would love for you to come by to tour the campus and meet the team! Visit us or call to schedule a time: 737.347.3929.

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