Chattanooga State Technical Community College invites the community to an open house for Middle College High School on Thursday, April 2.  Beginning at 6 p.m., the preview provides interested parents and students the opportunity to learn more about the Middle College High School program and its benefits.  Throughout the event, Chattanooga State faculty and staff will be available to interact with visitors and answer questions about classes, financial aid, admissions, student services, and advising.  Middle College High School is located on Chattanooga State’s main campus at 4501 Amnicola Highway.  The preview is open to the public free of charge.

The middle college model is a unique educational concept.  Dr. Elaine Swafford, vice president for student services, notes that “Chattanooga State collaborated with Hamilton County Department of Education to offer high school students an alternative experience through which they could achieve academic success, explore career aspirations, and attend college classes.”  Dr. Swafford continues by emphasizing that the middle college environment is perfect for students who are academically able but whose needs are not met in a traditional high school setting.

Middle College High School affords students a variety of benefits.  One of the most notable advantages is that students complete their high school requirements while earning college credit.  Additionally, students develop confidence in their capacity for success beyond high school.  “Expectations for college and the realities of the workforce are demanding for anyone,” says Dr. Swafford.  “The great outcome for middle college students is that they graduate with a competitive edge.  They have developed the fundamental skills necessary to manage the rigors of real life.”

For more information about Middle College High School, contact the Middle College High School administrative office by telephone at 423.697.4492 or by email at regina.kivelipoor@chattanoogastate.edu.

For information about Chattanooga State and its educational programs, call the Chattanooga State information hotline at 423.697.4404 or toll free at 1.866.547.3733 or visit the college’s Web site at www.chattanoogastate.edu.

Chattanooga State is a comprehensive, regionally accredited community college, operated under the policies and guidelines of the Tennessee Board of Regents College System.  Founded in 1965 and serving a six-county area in Southeast Tennessee, Chattanooga State offers a wide array of programs and services.