AC Badger Bound program transforms college access for Bovina students

When Salvador Gonzalez told his father he had earned a scholarship that could pay for his entire associate degree, the moment was emotional. His father, who completed only the third grade while growing up in Mexico, was moved to tears.

Just months earlier, Gonzalez had moved from Houston to Bovina, unsure what to expect in a new town and a new school.

Encouraged by his coach, counselor and teachers at Bovina High School, Gonzalez decided to try two things he had never done before: join the football team and enroll in dual-credit classes.

“At first I thought it would be too much,” Gonzalez said. “But when you’re given an opportunity, you have to take it. You never know if it will come again.”

The effort paid off. By earning more than 15 hours of dual-credit coursework, Gonzalez secured the Badger Bound scholarship at Amarillo College, which covers up to 45 hours of college credit—enough to complete an associate degree tuition-free.

Gonzalez now plans to continue his studies at Amarillo College and pursue a career in electrical engineering.

Stories like Gonzalez’s are becoming more common in Bovina. Since the Badger Bound program was introduced, interest in dual-credit courses among Bovina Independent School District students has increased more than 300 percent.

Even more notably, half of Bovina High School’s 2026 graduating class is expected to qualify for the Badger Bound scholarship.

Through the program, high school students who complete at least 15 hours of dual-credit coursework while still in high school qualify for the scholarship covering the remaining hours needed for an associate degree.

Educators in Bovina say the opportunity is helping students see new possibilities for their futures.

“Earning those 15 hours in two years isn’t hard, and you already have your education paid for,” said Rocio Mata, Bovina High School counselor. “This opportunity allows them to shine and to have more confidence in themselves—to know that yes, it is possible.” 

School leaders and teachers say the program is especially meaningful for rural students who may face financial or geographic barriers to higher education.

“Our students here in Bovina are hardworking and intelligent,” said Arnold Perez, Bovina High School principal. “This opportunity allows them to shine and to have more confidence in themselves — to know that yes, it is possible.”

Amarillo College leaders say the results in Bovina demonstrate how partnerships with rural school districts can create powerful pathways to higher education and workforce success.

“You shouldn’t be afraid to try a new opportunity,” Gonzalez said. “By failing is how you find success, so you should always give it your all and keep moving forward.”

The Badger Bound program continues to expand across the region, helping more high school students graduate with college momentum — and in some cases, a college degree already within reach.