Offered by Fremont Union High School District in
collaboration with De Anza College
What is Middle College?
Located on the De Anza College campus, Middle College is a partnership program between Fremont Union High School District and De Anza College. Some students do not flourish in a traditional high school environment, so through this unique program these students have the opportunity to explore and be challenged by new options at the 11th and 12th grade levels. Students complete their requirements for high school graduation while also exploring individual interests through a diverse college curriculum. De Anza courses earn both high school and college credit.
Middle College History
The first Middle College Program was jointly founded in 1974 by the New York City Board of Education and La Guardia Community College. De Anza's Middle College was established in 1989 and is the model for similar programs at San Jose City College and the College of San Mateo. Contra Costa College in San Pablo also has a Middle College High School. De Anza Middle College has been the recipient of both local and national recognition for its excellence.
Who is the Middle College Student?
- The student may not feel connected to the typical high school but has a sincere interest in completing high school and going on to college.
- The student may be gifted in one area, such as music, art, or computers, but may not be socially connected to the high school scene.
- The student has the potential maturity needed to succeed in the independent environment of De Anza College.
- The student may be a creative, independent thinker.
- The student may show a discrepancy between standardized test scores and actual grades.
- The student may be in jeopardy of not completing high school.
Curriculum
Middle College students are required to take two high school courses that satisfy high school graduation requirements. Juniors take an integrated course in American Literature and United States History. In addition, juniors complete 60 hours of community service for which they receive high school credits. Seniors take Contemporary Literature as well as semester courses in economics and American government.
Passing all Middle College courses is required to graduate, regardless of credits previously earned.
Students round out their schedules with college courses, earning high school and college credit.
Student Support Services
Middle College students have access to De Anza's comprehensive student services program and all facilities on campus. These include:
- Tutoring programs
- Counseling and Advising
- The Transfer Center that provides information about transferring to other colleges and universities
- Subject Area Placement Testing
- Cooperative Work Experience
- Educational Diagnostic Center
- Advanced Technology Center
- Career Development Center
- Student Clubs and Activities
- De Anza College Library
Expected Impact on Students
The impact of Middle College on students is expected to include:
- A strong connection and identification with a community of learners
- Increased motivation and engagement in learning
- Improved grades in all academic areas
- Increased maturity and problem-solving skills
- Improved communication skills
- High school graduation
- Accumulation of college credits
- Preparations for college admission
- A sense of responsibility toward self, school, and community
