Fairmont State University’s Middle College program is expanding its reach. Originally designed for West Virginia youth ages 16–18 currently in the foster care system, the program provided these students with a unique opportunity: to live on campus, complete their high school diploma, and simultaneously earn an associate degree—all before aging out of care.
Now, the program is opening its doors to additional students. Teens aged 16–17 who live in the surrounding community with a foster family, guardian, or relative are now eligible to apply—without needing to relocate. This expansion acknowledges the importance of educational stability while honoring students’ existing family and support systems.
“We know how important permanency is to youth with experience in care,” said Middle College Dean Emily Swain. “This expansion will allow students to remain in a supportive environment while pursuing their educational goals. Expanding the program to meet these needs will open the doors for even more students to experience Middle College.”
Middle College at Fairmont State was launched through a partnership with KVC West Virginia and the West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition to address the state’s foster care crisis. With more than 6,000 children currently in foster care across West Virginia, the statistics are staggering: only half of all youth in foster care earn a high school diploma, and between 2% and 6% go on to complete a college education. Middle College aims to reverse that trajectory by helping young people build strong academic foundations before they transition into adulthood—equipping them for employment or further education.
As a public university, Fairmont State is committed to serving the people of West Virginia. Middle College is one way the institution lives out its vision: to be a Great Place to Learn and to Call Home. By investing in youth who have faced some of life’s most difficult challenges, the university is investing in the future of the state—building a stronger, more resilient workforce and community.
“Programs like Middle College reflect what it truly means to be a public university,” said Dr. Mike Davis, President of Fairmont State University. “We have a responsibility to lift up every student with the potential to succeed—and that includes students who may not have had the support or resources they deserve. When we give them access to education and opportunity, we don’t just change their lives—we strengthen our communities and our state.”
To learn more about Middle College at Fairmont State and how to apply, visit https://www.fairmontstate.edu/middle-college/default.aspx.
