There are currently 151 students across all three high school campuses enrolled in first cohort of the Collegiate Academy of McKinney, said Javetta Jones-Roberson, McKinney ISD's coordinator of advanced academics and collegiate partnerships.

Jones-Roberson gave a presentation updating the MISD board of trustees on the program, which launched at the beginning of the 2026-27 school year, at a Sept. 14 meeting.

The overview: The program, also called the CAM, was created with MISD’s Strategic Plan in mind and aligns with the goals of creating college-, career- and military-ready students, according to Jones-Roberson’s presentation.

The impact: Students enrolled in this program will gradually increase the number of dual-credit courses they take, starting with two in 9th grade and increasing up to eight courses in 12th grade.

“We want them to have their associate’s degree once they finish and graduate high school,” Jones-Roberson said.

Imagine International Academy of North Texas is celebrating its 15th anniversary during the 2026-27 school year.

The gist: The public charter school serves 1,440 students from kindergarten through 12th grade, according to a news release. Imagine International Academy is an International Baccalaureate World School that offers three distinct programs for students depending on their grade.

What they're saying: Central Administration Officer Elisha Upton said school leaders are reflecting on the “tremendous work and tenacity” of Imagine International Academy’s founding families. She said it’s a privilege to see their “legacy of service” and belief in the school’s mission resonate throughout the community.

• 2860 Virginia Parkway, McKinney

Two environmental agencies have approved a new plan to improve water quality throughout the Rowlett Creek watershed.

The new plan was approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Aug. 24, according to Texas A&M AgriLife.

In a nutshell: Local partners are planning the following efforts to reduce the presence of E. coli bacteria in the watershed:

• Reduce pollutants from stormwater

• Promote responsible lawn care and pet waste practices

• Address illegal dumping and litter

• Expand education programs

• Support flood management strategies

• Continue water quality monitoring

Dig deeper: The study took samples from five sites along the creek, according to documents from Texas A&M AgriLife. Loads of E. coli were estimated to come from dogs, feral cats, livestock, feral hogs, ducks and wastewater treatment facilities.

Frisco’s Northwest Community Park hosted a grand opening Sept. 19 while Collin County officials voted to raise the property tax rate. Check out six trending stories from Community Impact’s Dallas-Fort Worth coverage areas.

1. Frisco celebrates grand opening of 122-acre Northwest Community Park

2. Collin County officials raise property tax rate for FY 2026-27

3. Keller ISD consolidating campuses due to declining enrollment

4. New mixed-use district planned around Toyota Stadium in Frisco

5. Rustic Cowboy Bar & Dance Hall offers dance lessons, live music in Fort Worth

6. 5 restaurants now open, coming soon in Plano