Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ)

Grossmont Middle College High School, a WASC-accredited high school, is a partnership between the Grossmont Union High School District and Grossmont Community College. Students have the opportunity through this unique alternative school to explore and be challenged by new options in the 11th and 12th grades. They complete requirements for high school graduation while earning college credits.

Where do I attend classes?

All classes, for high school and college credit, are held on the Grossmont College campus.

How many classes do I attend each day?

Students in Middle College, who are high school juniors and seniors, attend daily classes taught by the Middle College instructors: U.S. History and American Literature for juniors or British Literature, economics and government for seniors, and a study skills class. In addition, they complete required service learning/internship hours and career pathways projects. They also typically take two to three community college courses, equaling a minimum of six units, each semester.

How much homework will I have?

Middle College students commit to a minimum of two hours of homework and study per day. The typical formula for college preparation is two hours of study per each hour of classroom instruction.

What about transportation?

Students are responsible for their own transportation. Students must have reliable transportation so that they are able to get to classes and their service learning/internship on time each day.

Are there limits to the programs and services that I can use at Grossmont College? Will I be able to participate in drama, choir, sports, or other activities?

Middle College students have been known to participate in high school activities and athletic programs although almost all shift their focus to the community college campus. Students have the same privileges and opportunities as any Grossmont College student with the exception of intercollegiate athletics.

Will I graduate with my class?

Middle College holds its own graduation ceremonies as well as other typical senior activities such as Prom.

Will I be able to attend the Prom or participate in graduation at my home campus?

Again, most Middle College students shift their focus to the community college campus, but they may attend an activity such as the Prom with the approval of administrators at their home high school campus.

How long have middle colleges been around?

LaGuardia Community College of CUNY opened its doors to middle college students over twenty-five years ago. Since then, community colleges across the nation have developed middle college programs. DeAnza Middle College, in the San Jose area, was established in 1989 and is the model for similar programs on the West Coast. Grossmont Middle College enrolled its first students in the Fall of 2001.

Will I be able to work part-time?

Success in school comes first for middle college students, but for those who can manage, the flexible schedule allows for time to work. In addition, students may develop work-related skills and experiences through service learning or internship experiences.

Will I have to pay for college classes?

Books for the required high school courses are paid for by the high school district. Grossmont College tuition fees have been waived. Books for courses students elect to take from Grossmont College instructors are the responsibility of middle college students beyond some financial aid which may be available. Students also have been assessed fees for parking, the health center, and certain activities.

If I don’t like GMCHS, can I go back to my former high school?

Students' commitment to GMCHS is for the full two years. Please be aware that it may not be possible to take classes required for graduation should a student drop or be dropped from the program. Students must follow the rules of Middle College High School and Grossmont College and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 in high school classes in addition to passing a minimum of 6 college units of coursework with a 2.0 GPA and fulfilling Career Pathways responsibilities to remain in good standing with GMCHS.

Will I take SAT I, SAT II, ACT and AP tests?

That is entirely up to the student, depending upon his or her educational goals. The college career and advising center will be an excellent resource as will GMCHS teachers. Middle College students take all required state and district tests including Program Assessments and STAR9 and CAT6 tests. (We are proud to note that the API for GMCHS was the highest in the district last year!).

What internship and work opportunities are available?

Part of the student’s experience in service learning and career pathways is finding an appropriate service or internship placement. The importance of locating a placement early in the semester cannot be overemphasized. Students are required to complete a minimum of 60 hours per semester which averages approximately 4 hours per week if begun early in the semester.

How can I view the School Accountability Report Card (SARC)?

Click here to view the School Accountability Report Card (SARC) for Grossmont Middle College High School.

For more information contact:
Cathy Zemlick or Vincent Legg
Instructors
(619) 644-7524
Fax (619) 644-7011
cathy.zemlick@gcccd.net; calteacher@cox.net