Do I have to pay to be in the Middle College Program?
- No. All tuition, fees and books are paid for by the Van Buren ISD or your local school district
Can I still participate in extracurricular activities at my local district?
- Yes! During your junior and senior year you are still eligible and encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. During your 13th year you are NOT eligible to play high school sports but you may participate in intercollegiate athletics
If I am in the Middle College Program will I miss out on walking with my class for graduation?
- No. You will walk with your class, however your diploma will be held until the completion of the 13th year.
What program options are available for Middle College students?
- Those selected for admission then follow one of two program paths – Path one students attend Van Buren Tech in grade 11 and participate in one of the county’s CTE programs; then during grades 12 & “13” students attend one of our local college partners for classes. Path two students attend a local college partner for part of their day and their high school for part of their day in grades 11 and 12; then during grade “13” they attend the local college partner full time.
How do I get to the college campus for classes?
- You are responsible for getting to the college campus. The only exception to that is if you choose to enroll in college classes held on the campus of the Van Buren ISD – if you choose to register for classes at that site, you may opt to utilize district provided transportation (if available).
What college can I attend while in the program?
- You can attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Lake Michigan College or Southwestern Community College.
Will I miss out on Scholarship opportunities if I am an EMC student?
- No!!! As a student who completes the EMC program you will still be seen as a First Time On Campus student (Freshman) at the 4 year colleges and universities; therefore, you will be eligible for the Freshman scholarships. You will still be eligible to apply for scholarships awarded at your high school and other community organizations.
What other benefits are there to being in the Van Buren Middle College Program?
- Upon acceptance into the Middle College Program you will be assigned a Mentor who will work one on one with you throughout the 3 years you are in the program; providing guidance on goal setting, academic success, college exploration, applying to 4 year universities, selecting a major, class selection, scholarship search and applications, FAFSA, working with your Strengths and much, much more.

Van Buren Tech