By Dr. Tamika Riley
Michigan Chronicle
https://michiganchronicle.com/
Across the state of Michigan, the concept of high school students taking college courses at the same time has become the center of public discussion and policy initiative.
You have probably heard the phrases dual enrollment and early middle college pop up lately as an alternative to the traditional high school route. These programs are not just alternatives; they are among the most effective options we have to prepare Michigan students for the future.
At first glance, they all are similar in the fact that they offer a nontraditional pathway for high school students. However, although they share similar qualities it is important to recognize the differences in nuance and scope.
Dual Enrollment programs offer eligible high school students the opportunity to enroll in college courses at a partnered postsecondary institution. The flexibility dual enrollment offers is one of its best features. Without making a commitment to a degree pathway, eligible students can explore advanced subjects and majors, while earning high school and limited college credits.
Districts often pick up the tab for tuition, although there can be limits on how many courses students can take and which subjects make the approved list. While in dual enrollment courses, students do receive district providedsupport.
Early Middle College combines high school and college into an integrated experience and curriculum. Partnerships exist with a postsecondary institution and high school students commit to a program of study through a degree or certificate pathway.
High school students have up to five years to complete their high school diploma and either an associate’s degree or a professional or technical certificate. Thus, allowing students the opportunity of obtaining upwards of 60 transferable college credits, with most of the cost being free to students. Additionally, support services are set up for students to be academically successful. There are strong support systems in place that include one-on-one advising, academic coaching, and a college campus environment that treats high schoolers like blossoming adults.
I’ve spent the past 15 years working with one of the largest and most successful middle colleges in the country -Washtenaw Technical Middle College (WTMC) in Ann Arbor, and I have seen what these programs can do when they’re done well.
WTMC is housed directly on the campus of Washtenaw Community College. When students walk across the stage, they don’t just receive a high school diploma. They also leave with an associate’s degree and/or technical certificate from the community college. The most amazing part is that families do not pay a dime in tuition and students are earning free college credits.
In my role as Director of Student Advising and Engagement, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative these programs can be. Every day, I help students explore academic programs and careers, navigate academic challenges, and develop the skills needed that lead to future success.
Superintendent of WTMC Dr. Karl Covert explains that at WTMC, the more important measure of success is college success rate so that way we know that what we are doing is preparing students to be successful. The results speak for themselves. Nearly 82 percent of WTMC graduates earn at minimum one associate’s degree alongside a high school diploma.
Roughly 80 percent of graduates continue to study at a four-year university. Taking up to 60 credits with them, they are reducing both time and tuition costs. About 10 percent of graduates head straight into the workforce and earn a livable wage right out of high school.
The discussion about dual enrollment and early middle college is more than just about gaining college credits and pursuing degree and/or certificate programs. It also involves a discussion around student needs and the preparation necessary to be successful after high school no matter the chosen path.
When it’s done right, both early middle college and dual enrollment programs can offer students a headstart and impact the trajectory of their future. Furthermore, the idea of pursuing college becomes real and possible for all students, including those who may have otherwise not taken that path.
“Middle colleges have been one of the only models that consistently help first‑generation college students not only get into college, but succeed there and complete a degree,” says Superintendent Dr. Karl Covert. “It’s important work, and the direction most schools should be going.”
Without a doubt these programs are critical for our kids and communities alike. If we are serious about preparing students for life after high school, districts and state leaders must act with urgency to expand these programs, ensure they are accessible, and help families understand the power of these educational options.
Dr. Riley graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in Psychology, and an M.A. in School and Community Counseling. She has also earned her PhD in Organizational Psychology. Prior to joining WTMC in 2010, Dr. Riley gained valuable experience as a Case Manager for Michigan Works in Detroit. In addition, she has served as a counselor across school and community agency settings throughout the Metro Detroit area.
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