Bastrop County is home to four outstanding Independent School Districts (ISDs)—Bastrop ISD (BISD), Elgin ISD (EISD), Smithville ISD (SISD), and McDade ISD (MISD)—each partnering with Austin Community College (ACC) to deliver robust dual-credit programs that allow high school students to earn college credits toward degrees or certifications at no or low cost, accelerating their path to postsecondary success and workforce readiness.

Education in Bastrop County

Bastrop County is home to four outstanding Independent School Districts (ISDs)—Bastrop ISD (BISD), Elgin ISD (EISD), Smithville ISD (SISD), and McDade ISD (MISD)—each partnering with Austin Community College (ACC) to deliver robust dual-credit programs that allow high school students to earn college credits toward degrees or certifications at no or low cost, accelerating their path to postsecondary success and workforce readiness.

Dual Credit Programs

The districts' Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs are equally impressive, offering hands-on training aligned with high-demand industries such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and emerging technologies. Bastrop ISD stands out with its P-TECH Advanced Manufacturing Academy at Bastrop High School and Cedar Creek High School, where students complete up to 26 college credits through ACC, earn industry certifications (e.g., Production Technician Level 1), and gain real-world experience via apprenticeships and work-based learning—such as the Acutronic Apprenticeship Alliance for aerospace and manufacturing roles.

These CTE and P-TECH initiatives, across Bastrop County’s region, thrive through strong industry partnerships with local and regional employers, including companies in manufacturing, tech, and advanced sectors that provide mentorship, internships, and direct pathways to employment. This collaborative approach equips Bastrop County students with the skills, credentials, and connections needed to fill high-quality jobs in priority industries, supporting business attraction, retention, and sustainable economic growth for the entire community. 

Career and Technical Education

 

Connect with BCEDP to learn more about how these educational assets strengthen our workforce pipeline!

Bastrop ISD
bisdtx.org

Elgin ISD
elginisd.net

Smithville ISD
smithvilleisd.org

mcdade ISD
mcdadeisd.com