History

What is Middle College?

• Middle College programs in California were originated in the broader national Middle College High School (MCHS) movement in New York in the 1970's

• Middle College programs were established throughout California after starting in Contra Costa

• These programs were implemented to reach students who were academically underserved or those who sought a more challenging academic environment

• Middle College programs in California are characterized by a dual enrollment structure. Students enrolled in these programs attend classes on the community college campus, taking both high school and college courses.

• Students in these programs earn both high school and college credit often graduating with a significant number of college credits

• Diverse range of students, including individuals seeking a different environment from traditional high school settings and students exploring flexible educational options

• Students at PAMC will be enrolled in Foothill College and PAUSD simultaneously, which means they will be taking high school classes in either the Morning cohort or Afternoon cohort, satisfying their high school course requirements as well as acquiring college credits