About Foothill Middle College
Who We Are
Middle College is a collaborative effort between the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District and Foothill College. Students meet their high school graduation requirements by taking a combination of high school and college classes on campus at Foothill College, while engaging in a small, tight-knit community of both staff and students.
Who We Serve
We serves students who are intellectually curious, capable of doing college level work, but who, for a variety of reasons, do not feel connected to their home high school. By interacting with more mature students, and by taking advantage of advanced college level coursework, students are empowered to explore their academic interests and develop a renewed sense of educational purpose.
How It Works
Students take Middle College English and social studies classes daily with their high school Middle College teachers. Their Middle College teachers also act as their guidance counselors, helping students select courses and plan for college. While taking their English and social studies classes, Middle College students also take up to 11 credits of college classes per quarter. Students can choose from a wide variety of classes that meet their interests and their remaining graduation requirements.
Students enrolled in Middle College are considered to be “on leave” from their home high schools. Therefore, they are eligible to receive a diploma from their home high school, participate in home school sports and activities, and take part in graduation and other senior events.
After Middle College, many students apply to four-year colleges as freshman (with up to 60+ transferable college credits), continue their studies at Foothill College in order to transfer as a junior to UCs, CSUs & other universities, or study abroad or join gap year programs before continuing their studies.
Student Testimonials
“In all honesty, Middle College saved me.”
“We all have different backgrounds, experiences, interests, dreams, yet we are open to connecting with one another. ”
“Yes, it is college credit and open class discussions, but it’s way more than that, it is communal growth.”
“I was involved in a community now, something more than a school … I finally felt important, I felt heard and seen.”
In the News
Superintendent Dr. Nellie Meyers:
“The Mountain View Los Altos High School District (MVLA) is expanding access to the venerable Middle College program at Foothill College, now offering college access and opportunities to two cohorts of 50 students, for a total of 100 juniors and seniors.
“Middle college high school programs offer several benefits to students,” said Dr. Nellie Meyer, MVLA Superintendent. “These programs are designed to bridge the gap between high school and college, providing a unique educational experience.” - MVLA Magazine Nov 2023