How to Jump-Start Higher Education at HVAM

Did you know? According to data from the Michigan League for Public Policy, 72% of Michigan’s students are not considered “college ready” – that’s nearly 3 out of every 4 students! At Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan (HVAM), though, students have multiple ways to not only prepare for college, but start taking advanced-level classes while they’re still in high school. 

Dori Swiercz is the dual enrollment counselor at HVAM, overseeing the dual enrollment program. HVAM also offers Early Middle College (EMC) programs, alongside Advanced Placement (AP) courses. 

“Both of these programs start HVAM students on the path of beginning college coursework before they graduate high school,” she said. “This year, we have 78 students enrolled in our dual enrollment and EMC programs combined.” 

What’s the difference between dual enrollment and Early Middle College? 

Dual enrollment: For students in grades 9–12, this program allows students to enroll in a college/university in Michigan and take college courses while alongside their high school classes and count towards high school credit as well as begin their college transcript. 

If enrolled at a partner school (Baker College or Davenport University), there are no out-of-pocket costs. You don’t pay tuition, fees, or book costs. 

Early Middle College: For students beginning in 11th grade, this is a three-year public school program that lets students participate in an integrated sequence of high school and college courses. Students continue through a 13th year of study that allows them to earn one of the following while working toward their high school diploma: 

• An associate’s degree; 

• Up to 60 transferable college credits; or  

• Stackable academic certificates with Davenport University. 

Similar to dual enrollment, for EMC, there are no additional expenses needed for the three-year program. 

“Dual enrollment and EMC programs are getting bigger and bigger,” said Dori. “Online learning makes them more accessible and adds helpful flexibility. More students are getting college credit because they have the time to do additional courses.” 

What’s more, taking HVAM classes online can give students better flexibility to attend college courses in person for a hybrid, on-campus experience. 

Both programs help students become better prepared for college by introducing them to the more challenging coursework required of higher education. Data backs that up: According to the National College Access Network (NCAN), if students take dual enrollment courses, they are 80% more likely to enroll in higher education after high school. 

One HVAM student getting a headstart. 

“One of our students, Nargis, has flourished through the dual enrollment programs,” Dori shared. “Nargis maintained a 4.0 GPA all through HVAM and graduated early with 28 college credits already completed.” 

There are more students showing interest in dual enrollment and Early Middle College each year. Dori encourages students and families who want to learn more about the programs to check out eligibility requirements and more details on our website. 

Learn More About Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan  

Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan is a K12-powered tuition-free online public school option for Michigan families. Students learn from home with Michigan-certified teachers and a school-provided curriculum.  

Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan serves students in grades K Prep – 12.  

Learn more about Highpoint Virtual Academy of Michigan and how online learning works. 

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