Certain students can benefit from deeper learning outside of MVHS
To most MVHS students, going to Middle College may seem like a dubious choice. Not only are Middle College students barred from entering MVHS campus during school hours, but some of them also attend classes for as little as two days a week—a far cry from a “normal” high school life.
However, the point of school is to learn, and at Middle College, students can at least expect that much.
At MVHS, the rigid educational and social systems dictate a student’s high school experience. They must choose at most one course from each department, offering nothing extra for those who wish to pursue one area of study in-depth. People tend to be grouped into exclusive cliques that make it difficult for them to broaden their scope of friends.
In Middle College, students are required to take core classes of English and history so that they maintain a strong grasp of writing, but aside from those conditions, the possibilities are endless. Instead of sticking to the usual combination of five core classes, students can have a more flexible schedule tailored to their interests and future college majors, especially since they can “double up” in different subjects. For example, a science-major-to-be would be able to take both chemistry and physics, along with some non-traditional courses such as art history and fencing.
In addition, Middle College includes a wider variety of individuals than what one would encounter at MVHS because students from all over FUHSD can apply for Middle College. Rather than sticking to one group, students can mingle with a diverse array of people, who, despite different backgrounds, share the desire for alternative learning. At MVHS, students may be held back from interacting with people outside of their comfort zone, but Middle College has no social limits. This also considerably lowers the pressure to get good grades, arguably one of the larger drawbacks of MVHS.
Some may be wary of the implications an alternative high school program has on future college prospects, but there is no need for worry. Middle College graduates have been accepted to selective schools such as Northwestern University and University of California, Berkeley—universities to which many MVHS students apply every year. In addition, Middle College students receive college credit for their courses, so they are able to save money and time when they do enter a university.
Middle College is by no means a paradise for everyone: applicants should be prepared to study at the college level and should have a true passion for learning. Also, students must be willing to say good-bye to clubs and friends, both important aspects of high school. But people searching for an open community where they can learn without constant stress should be aware that there are options beyond getting pushed around at MVHS.
