Rock Hill, SC, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Rock Hill Schools and York Technical College have partnered to launch a Middle College program that allows high school students to earn both a diploma and an Associate of Arts degree. The inaugural class of 20 students kicked off their journey at York Technical College, engaging in college-level coursework while still meeting high school requirements. This initiative aims to prepare students for future educational and career opportunities, with tuition assistance provided through the South Carolina Lottery. Families will only need to cover the cost of instructional materials.
Rock Hill, SC – New Middle College Program Launched for High School Students
Rock Hill Schools and York Technical College have announced the launch of a new Middle College program, which aims to provide high school students with the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree. The program commenced with an inaugural class of 20 students at a launch event held on August 20, 2025, at York Technical College.
This innovative educational partnership allows students to take college-level classes while still completing their high school education. Courses will cover a variety of subjects, including English, math, science, social studies, and humanities. The aim is to give students a head start on their path to a bachelor’s degree, with the expectation that they could earn a college degree by the age of 17 or 18.
The program is financially accessible, as tuition and fees are covered by the South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program. However, families will need to cover the costs associated with instructional materials.
Support for Student Success
College President Stacey Moore highlighted that this partnership represents a significant step toward accelerated learning and presents better future opportunities for students. By allowing high school students to earn college credits, the program aims to better prepare them for both entry into the workforce and further educational pursuits.
Expanded Educational Initiatives
The Middle College program is part of a broader set of educational initiatives within the Rock Hill School District. Recently, they also launched a Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program in collaboration with Winthrop University. This program offers students the chance to earn up to 36 college credit hours while still in high school, serving a cohort of 28 students during its first year.
Students as Pioneers
The launch event celebrated the role of the inaugural students as pioneers in this new educational initiative. This Middle College program sets a new standard for educational possibilities within the district, promising to reshape the future of learning in Rock Hill.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Rock Hill Schools and York Technical College under the Middle College program marks a significant advancement in providing educational opportunities for students. It is expected to foster a rich learning environment where students can succeed academically and prepare for future challenges in higher education and professional careers.
FAQ
What is the Middle College program?
The Middle College program allows high school students to earn both a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree while still in high school.
How many students are in the inaugural class?
The inaugural class consists of 20 Rock Hill high school students.
Who covers the tuition and fees for the program?
Tuition and fees are covered by the South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program, but families are responsible for instructional materials costs.
What subjects will students study?
Students will take courses in English, math, science, social studies, and humanities.
What other programs are available for high school students?
In addition to the Middle College program, there is a Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program with Winthrop University, which allows students to earn up to 36 college credit hours.
Key Features of the Middle College Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Inaugural Class Size | 20 students |
| Degrees Offered | High School Diploma and Associate of Arts Degree |
| Tuition Coverage | South Carolina Lottery Tuition Assistance Program |
| Cost Responsibility | Families pay for instructional materials |
| Subjects Available | English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Humanities |
| Age Expectation for Degree | 17 or 18 years old |
| Related Programs | Business & Leadership Dual Enrollment Program |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Rock Hill Middle College Opens at York Technical
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill York Tech Middle College
- Google Search: Middle College Programs in USA
- Herald Online: Middle College Program in Rock Hill
- Google Scholar: Middle College Program
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill Middle School Incident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
