Benefits of Middle College

Middle College at Fairmont State University impacts West Virginia youth who have experienced foster care by helping them achieve academically, while also supporting their emotional, social, and practical needs as they transition to adulthood.

Students are viewed and treated as a whole person with one goal in mind—their long-term success and well-being.

Qualified youth can excel academically, and beyond, while experiencing the following benefits:

Experience & Expertise

Middle College is a partnership between Fairmont State University, KVC West Virginia, Marion County Schools, and West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition.

Safety and Security

A safe and secure environment with Middle College program staff available 24/7 ensures Middle College students can focus on learning and personal development.

Free Tuition

Middle College is a cost-free program that eliminates the financial burden of student loans. Tuition, fees and housing are 100% supported by federal and state sources for attending students.

Academic Support and Advising

Middle College offers tailored academic programs with individualized instruction and additional resources to address each student's learning gaps and encourage the pursuit of their academic interests.

Dual-Degree Pathways

Students have a clear pathway to higher education once they earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree, or two years of credits toward a bachelor's degree, through Middle College.

Flexible Scheduling

Flexible class schedules accommodate students' unique needs, such as academic interest, as well as part-time work-study jobs and other responsibilities.

Educational Advocacy

Students are empowered as active participants in their academic journey and are equipped with knowledge and skills to advocate for their educational needs and rights.

Stability

Middle College provides a consistent and supportive environment that minimizes the risk of transition, reduces disruptions in a student’s education, and increases their opportunities for success.

Supportive Physical and Emotional Development

To help build resilience and self-confidence, Middle College focuses on nurturing both the social and emotional development of students via access to specially trained staff, therapists, and other experts in trauma-informed care.

Trauma-Informed Care

KVC's trauma-informed staff ensure that each student is seen and heard, and that their individual needs are addressed with empathy and understanding.

Life Skills

Essential skills for independent living such as budgeting, time management, career development, and self-care are a critical aspect of each student’s community- and campus-based support services.

Extracurricular Activities

Students are encouraged to join extracurricular activities such as clubs, intramural sports, and other student activities that foster a well-rounded education and personal growth.

Community and Belonging

Students live in a supportive and inclusive community with peers who share similar experiences.

Create and Maintain Healthy Connections

To provide ongoing stability and a support system, students are encouraged to maintain connections with foster parents, biological family, friends, teachers, service providers, and their local community. Students also build new trusting relationships with supportive adults through Middle College.

Weekend and Holiday Activities

Participants have regular organized weekend and holiday activities to ensure engagement throughout the entire year. 