Eight students from Dowagiac Union High School are now both high school and college graduates thanks to the Early Middle College program at Southwestern Michigan College. The eight became their high school’s first class to complete the dual enrollment that adds essentially adds a year to high school, but allows them to have their associates degree at no cost. SMC vice president of instruction David Fleming says the students taking part are sharp and normally don’t have too many issues with dual enrollment or the adjustment to college.
“I’m not even sure the average faculty member even knows when they have an Early Middle College student in their class,” Fleming tells WSJM News. “Obviously they’re going to be very well prepared. They’re academically prepared and academically goal-minded, and that’s where the high schools help vet them for us.”
All students in Cass County are eligible to apply for the EMC program at Southwestern Michigan College, just like Lake Michigan College offers the same program to Berrien County students. The kids apply for it during 10th grade, so Fleming encourages parents of 8th and 9th graders to be aware and pay attention to when high schools hold college information sessions. All the costs of the college courses are covered by the school district provided the students maintain a high enough grade point average.
This version replaces an earlier version of this story, clearing up a few details and adding comments from David Fleming.
