What Is Middle College?

Middle College is a unique program designed to meet the needs of students who can take responsibility for their education in a smaller setting than most traditional high schools.

Established by the Dallas Independent School District and El Centro College in 1989, Middle College is a school where academically capable young women and men can complete their high school courses, sharpen their skills, and get a head start on college work while they arein high school.

Students have opportunities to participate in El Centro Art, Music, and Drama productions. They also have access to the college library and computer center on the same basis as El Centro students.

The school year is organized in four nine-week cycles. In each cycle students cover a semester’s work and take the same Assessment of Course Performance as students in other Dallas high schools. Students may also be able to take El Centro courses for credit toward high school graduation.

Classes meet every day between 11:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Small classes offer greater opportunities for concepts being taught to be understood thoroughly. Students receive a free DART pass each month.

Admissions

Any Dallas ISD student in grades 9-12 may apply for admission to Middle College. Students outside Dallas ISD must pay tuition charges which are very competitive with most private schools.

Applications must be signed by the student’s home school principal. Two recommendations from teachers and a recommendation from the principal are also required. All applicants take assessment tests over reading, writing, and math skills. Parents and students must meet with at least two Middle College teachers for an admission interview