Greer Middle College: A Unique Educational Opportunity in South Carolina
Greer Middle College (GMC) Charter High School stands out as a distinctive educational institution within the South Carolina Public Charter School District. As a public charter high school, GMC offers tuition-free education to any student residing in South Carolina. Nestled on the Greenville Technical College-Benson Campus, GMC provides a unique learning environment for students in grades 9-12.
Campus and Enrollment
Located on the Greenville Technical College-Benson Campus, GMC's facilities include an Academic Building and an Activities Center. The school maintains a maximum enrollment of 550 students, fostering a close-knit community. Each year, GMC typically welcomes 140 new freshmen. Prospective students can apply online between October 27 and December 1st to participate in the lottery for admission. GMC utilizes PowerSchool for lottery applications and enrollment paperwork. A tutorial video is available to guide applicants through the process of creating an enrollment account and profile. Those who miss the initial lottery can still create a profile on PowerSchool to be placed on the waitlist.
Academics and Curriculum
GMC's curriculum is designed to be both rigorous and engaging, preparing students for college and careers. The school operates on a modified block schedule, with "A" days on Monday and Wednesday, and "B" days on Tuesday and Thursday. Fridays alternate between A and B schedules, with retesting afterward. The school day runs from 8:00 am to 2:50 pm, Monday through Thursday, with a shortened Friday schedule from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm.
A cornerstone of the GMC experience is the Senior Capstone project. This requirement allows students to explore their creative interests, investigate potential career paths, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. GMC teachers and administrators are dedicated to supporting students in achieving their educational goals through office hours and other support programs.
Dual Enrollment Program
A distinctive feature of GMC is its dual enrollment program with Greenville Technical College. Beginning in their sophomore year, students who meet the eligibility criteria can take college courses while still in high school. To qualify, students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 during their freshman year and pass all coursework. Teacher recommendations are also essential, as maturity is considered a key factor for success in the program. Students who are eligible for the program must complete and sign a GMC Middle College Program Contract.
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GMC covers the cost of a certain number of college credits per semester. Students who wish to take additional courses are responsible for covering the additional tuition costs. After the first year, students may take up to two college courses during the summer. Students who transfer from GMC after taking college courses are responsible for reimbursing the school for any tuition, book costs, and other fees paid by the school on their behalf. Students are responsible for completing all required Dual Enrollment paperwork. Several sources of information and additional resources are available to students to assist them in the planning, preparation and completion of Dual Enrollment courses through Greenville Technical College.
Currently, 50% of GMC students are enrolled in college courses, taking advantage of the opportunity to earn an Associate degree while still in high school.
Extracurricular Activities and Community
GMC fosters a strong sense of community through various extracurricular activities and initiatives. The school encourages students to stay informed through regular communication channels. GMC strongly believes in serving the community in which it lives.
Lunch Program
The GMC Lunch program is managed by the Parents In Partnership (PIP) volunteer committee. This program provides hot lunches to students, relying on 3 volunteers per day to ensure its smooth operation. The school receives no federal or state funding for the lunch program. PIP partners with local restaurants to offer a variety of lunch choices each day. Students can also purchase frozen entrees, drinks, and snacks. Families can set up an account to order lunch through My Food Days, which accepts major credit and debit cards as well as e-checks. There is no fee for processing payments with a minimum payment of $25. In the event of a student's absence, the lunch order can be canceled until 8 am.
School Performance and Rankings
Greer Middle College Charter High School is ranked #3,476 in the National Rankings. Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college. All Rankings: #3,476 in National Rankings, #38 in South Carolina High Schools, #11 in Greenville, SC Metro Area High Schools, #3 in Sc Public Charter School District High Schools, #483 in Charter High Schools.U.S. News & World Report assesses schools based on student performance on state-required tests and internationally available exams on college-level coursework (AP® and IB exams).
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Key performance indicators include:
- Graduation Rate: 96% (well above state median)
- Mathematics Proficiency: 74%
- College Readiness (district average): 6.8
- Proficient in Reading (district average): 73%
- Proficient in Mathematics (district average): 42%
- Proficient in Science (district average): 47%
College-Ready Student Performance: Proportion of 12th Grade Class Who Took an Exam - 12%, Proportion of 12th Grade Class Who Scored 3+ on an Exam - 8%, Exam Takers in 12th Grade Class Who Scored 3+ on an Exam - 71%.
Mission and Vision
The mission of Greer Middle College is to produce well-rounded, college and career-ready students through collaborative and engaging learning opportunities. GMC seeks to create a community of learners where mutual respect, trust, integrity, and the pursuit of knowledge are valued. GMC provides equitable opportunities for all students to acquire an education focused on linkages between technology, careers, and rigorous academics. It aims to produce graduates who are prepared to enter the global workforce of the 21st century.
GMC’s vision promotes a project-based curriculum, offering students a strong academic foundation and the technical training necessary for college. With the personalized support structure and family atmosphere plus the opportunity for students to partake in dual-credit opportunities in high school, GMC is exceeding the expectations of students and parents. GMC helps students meet the tasks they set for themselves of seeking challenges to learn and grow during these formative years. By sparking creativity and inquisitive thinking through its courses, GMC provides graduates with an unparalleled high school education in a small setting.
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