Austin ISD will break ground on an approximately 3,500-square-foot building to accommodate the new Career Launch program at Reagan Early College High School.

The program, a partnership with Dell Technologies and Austin Community College, allows students to earn an associate degree in computer science.

Phase one of the construction project is expected to be complete by the start of the new school year. The approximately $500,000 construction includes three offices, reception/entrance, a large collaboration space, a computer lab, a project room and storage.

Who: Superintendent Paul Cruz, Reagan High School Principal Anabel Garza, Dell Technologies Senior Vice President and Chief Responsibility Officer Trisa Thompson and representatives from Austin Community College

When: 10 a.m. Friday, May 19

Where: Reagan Early College High School, 7104 Berkman Drive

Background: An approximately $800,000 grant from the Texas Education Agency allows AISD to begin Career Launch at two early college high schools. Career Launch, a six-year program, provides students the opportunity to graduate with their high school diploma, an associate degree, industry certifications and practical workplace experience and mentoring. The program is designed to help students launch careers in fields that are expected to have high demand for skilled employees.