When Isaac Shumate was a freshman at Splendora High School, he enrolled in dual credit classes through Lone Star College-Kingwood. Now three years later, the senior credits those courses for his acceptance into the United States Military Academy at West Point.
“The Dual Credit program at Lone Star College-Kingwood has prepared me for the elite-level classes at West Point, possibly putting me ahead of those who haven’t had this opportunity,” said Shumate. “My experience has been very smooth with access to quality classes and professors who have been helpful during this journey.”
Shumate’s path to the United States Military Academy at West Point started in spring 2025 on the football field. A recruiter saw his film and invited him to play for the military academy. He accepted, understanding that this opportunity would align with his goals.
“Attending West Point will be a great honor for me to earn a college education, play football, and of course serve my country,” he said. “Although I’m still deciding on a major, I plan to make the most of my time there, graduating as a military officer and hopefully building a leadership career in the oil field, and helping my father run his mortgage business.”
The LSCS Dual Credit program helps students, like Shumate, get a head start on college by earning college credit toward a certification and a two-year or four-year degree while completing high school. Credits are transferable to state colleges and universities, as well as some out-of-state and private institutions.
“Dual credit can be transformative, giving students like Isaac the chance to succeed in a college-level environment while supported by their high school,” said Michele Burch, LSC-Kingwood adjunct English professor. “His motivation, discipline, and strong performance in rigorous coursework helped prepare him for acceptance to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he will undoubtedly thrive.”
Shumate, a Splendora High School football and track athlete, is the first Splendora ISD student accepted to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
“Isaac’s acceptance to the United States Military Academy at West Point is an outstanding achievement and a proud moment for our district,” said Dustin Bromley, Ed.D., Splendora ISD superintendent. “His success reflects the strength of our supportive school community and inspires others to aim high, lead with integrity, and pursue opportunities at the highest levels.”
Shumate will simultaneously earn a high school diploma from Splendora High School and an associate of arts degree from LSC-Kingwood this May. Learn more about the Lone Star College System Dual Credit program at LoneStar.edu/DualCredit.
Lone Star College System enrolls over 90,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSCS is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSCS, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area and has been named a 2025 Great Colleges to Work For? institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education. LSCS consists of eight colleges, six centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.