Coppell High School senior Mikayla Bass, whose nickname is “Bear” for her work ethic and success in athletics and academics, will be graduating with a college associate degree this year before even receiving her high school diploma.

Bass was able to do this through CHS’s dual credit program, which allows students to take classes that will earn them high school and college credit simultaneously through a partnership with North Lake College. Currently, CHS offers more than 60 dual credit courses, including English, history, biology, calculus and accounting.

Kelly Bass, who is Mikayla’s mother, said her daughter — who is also the only student at CHS that has won a state championship in two sports, which are soccer and volleyball — proves that any student can be successful in both athletics and academics as long as they are determined to succeed and put some effort into planning.

“Mikayla is a great example of a student with an average to above average IQ and athletic abilities using the resources that CHS has to offer to maximize her potential,” Kelly Bass said.

The dual credit program has not only helped Bass earn an associate degree but also saved her family money because the program covered the cost of her classes, so Bass essentially earned the degree for just the price of her books. Bass will be attending college next school year on an athletic scholarship.

“Her choices in the classroom will enable her to enter her chosen university, St Mary’s, as a junior, which will allow her to use the last two years of her athletic scholarship college eligibility to finish her master’s degree,” Kelly Bass said.

Coppell school district officials and coaches have recognized the success that Bass has had throughout her high school career.

“I’m so proud of the accomplishments Mikayla has made during her time at Coppell High School,” said Brad Hunt, the assistant superintendent for administration for CISD. “She is leaving CHS with two state championships in girls soccer and volleyball, an associate’s degree, a high school diploma and more importantly, the skill set to be successful in the future.”

CHS varsity soccer coach Chris Stricker said, “Bear was always a fierce competitor and always had a caring heart. She was always liked by her teammates and was really good playing where the team needed her. She will do great at the next level in athletics and St. Mary’s is blessed to have her.”

Kelly Bass said CHS offers countless opportunities to help students become successful, well-rounded young adults.

"I truly feel that CHS is doing a wonderful job preparing our students and wish more parents were aware of the possibilities," Kelly Bass said.

Mikayla Bass Achievements and Honors

• 2008 Elected to the principals advisor committee
• 2009 CHS Soccer State Champion as a starting freshman
• 2011 Academic All State
• 2011 CHS Volleyball State Champion as a starting setter and captain

(Information courtesy of Kelly Bass.)