State Superintendent Applauds Middle College

Dec 13, 2011

Dr. Zais Praises Program for High Success Rate

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Mick Zais (center) with Midlands Middle College students Katherine Branning (left) and Mariah Gomez (right).

Dr. Mick Zais, State Superintendent of Education, spoke about the important work and great success of MEBA's Midlands Middle College at a recent event held at Midlands Technical College Airport Campus, where the program is housed. Zais stressed the importance of providing different paths to allow all students the chance to succeed and praised Midlands Middle College for its high graduation rate and commitment to helping its students overcome perceived obstacles and achieve success. Midlands Middle College has a graduation rate of 96 percent. 

Katherine Branning, a junior at the Middle College, and Mariah Gomez, a senior, both spoke about how the program has given them a second chance and a bright future. Both describe the program as a family, a place where they felt like they belonged and where teachers made learning relevant and success achievable. “The Midlands Middle College has changed my life,” said Branning. “It has improved my self confidence, helped me understand the importance of my education and made me excited about my future.”

Iqille Downing, a recent graduate of the program, also spoke to event attendees and stood as a strong example of the high number of program graduates who continue their education. Downing is currently a student at Midlands Technical College with plans to pursue a career in health sciences.

Midlands Middle College is a unique, three-county initiative established to help students who are academically capable, but at-risk of dropping out of high school. Coordinated by the Midlands Education and Business Alliance (MEBA) and located on the Airport Campus of Midlands Technical College, Midlands Middle College works with school districts to provide students with another option for academic excellence and encouragement to graduate from high school. Midlands Middle College works to reduce the high school dropout rate in the Midlands, create a seamless transition to college programs, afford students real-world experiences and encourage collaboration between K-12 and higher education. Learn more at www.midlandsmiddlecollege.com.

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