The Early College High School (ECHS) initiative was developed through collaboration with state, federal and private entities to create high schools located on college campuses. ECHS students complete programs of study designed to prepare students to be successful in college. While attending Early College High School, secondary school students complete dual credit coursework aligned with both career paths and post-secondary degree plans. ECHS campuses are designed to reach underrepresented people including students of color and economically disadvantaged students. Through ECHS student interviews and focus groups discussions at five Texas ECHS campuses, an ethnography of ECHS students was conducted. The ethnography focused on the motivations and aspirations of ECHS students, while including supporting information from administrators, faculty, and regulatory groups. Through the ethnographic study, a unique high school environment emerged: one of democracy, social justice, scholastic rigor, and an ethic of care.