A group of high school students has achieved something special by earning college degrees even before finishing school. A total of 46 students, including seven from Claiborne County, will receive associate degrees through Walters State Community College.
About the Middle College Program
These students are part of the Middle College program, which allows them to complete college-level courses while still studying in high school. Each student completed 60 credit hours, which is equal to a full associate degree.
According to Dr. Matthew Hunter, the program helps students meet both high school and college requirements at the same time.
Special Achievement for Students
What makes this achievement unique is that these students will receive their associate degrees at the college’s graduation ceremony before they officially graduate from high school.
Some students chose general studies, while others focused on areas like:
- Health sciences
- Agriculture
- Pre-medicine
Most students plan to continue their education by transferring to other colleges.
Growing Popularity of the Program
The Middle College program has grown quickly in recent years. Student participation increased by 137%, from 61 students in 2023 to 145 students in 2025.
Students from Claiborne County
The seven students from Claiborne County who completed the program include:
- Hannah Rowe – Claiborne High School
- Kolton Goins – Cumberland Gap High School
- McKenna Heck – Cumberland Gap High School
- Jaelynn Jones – Cumberland Gap High School
- Alyssa Smith – Cumberland Gap High School
- Faith Simpson – Homeschool
- Bianca Echeverria – Homeschool
