Graduating with Diplomas and Degrees in Hand (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Reedley, California — Reedley Middle College High School has secured a distinguished state honor for its dual enrollment program. The public charter school within the Kings Canyon Unified School District earned designation as a 2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment School from State Superintendent Tony Thurmond. This recognition positions it as the only recipient in Fresno County among 32 schools statewide.[1][2]
Graduating with Diplomas and Degrees in Hand
Students at Reedley Middle College High School experience a rare opportunity: completing high school while earning college credits toward an associate’s degree or transfer certificate. Established in 2012 through a partnership with Reedley College, the school operates on the college campus. This setup immerses pupils in higher education from their freshman year.[3]
The program emphasizes career pathways, such as agriculture and business. Seniors often celebrate dual graduations, blending high school caps and gowns with college achievements. Principal Josh Darnell highlighted the dual counseling support available daily to craft individualized education plans. These efforts ensure students from first-generation college families receive tailored guidance for postsecondary success.[1]
Student Voices Echo Program’s Transformative Power
Senior Johnae Bedolla captured the excitement of the model. “It’s fun because now, we get two graduations to look forward to so we get two gowns, two dresses,” she said. Bedolla pursued agriculture business courses early, confirming her interest in a double major in business administration and political science. The experience propelled her to full-ride scholarships at Fresno State and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.[1]
Bedolla credited the rigorous education for attracting top universities. “It kind of shows how our hard work is really paying off to these universities, and they want students like us,” she noted. Officials project that about 90 percent of this year’s graduating class will hold an associate’s degree or transfer certificate upon high school completion. Last year, the school achieved a 100 percent graduation rate, with all students meeting University of California and California State University A-G requirements.[4]
Meeting Rigorous State Standards for Exemplary Status
The California Department of Education evaluated applicants on multiple fronts. Schools demonstrated strong collaborations among high schools, colleges, families, communities, and industry partners. Evidence of equity, alignment with district and college frameworks, dual credits counting toward high school graduation, positive outcome data, structured pathways, and robust student supports proved essential.[2]
- Collaborative partnerships fostering seamless transitions
- Equity-focused access for diverse student populations
- Integration of high school and college academic plans
- High completion rates and dual credit accumulation
- Career-oriented pathways with industry input
- Comprehensive counseling and support services
Thurmond praised the awardees for opening doors through community ties. “Dual enrollment programs give students a chance to explore their interests… and begin their college journey early at no cost,” he stated. The title lasts two years, allowing schools to share best practices statewide.[2]
A Track Record of Repeated Honors
This accolade marks continued excellence for Reedley Middle College High School. It previously received the 2016-2017 Exemplary Program Award from the California Community Colleges Board of Governors, the first middle college high school so honored for student services. The institution also earned California Distinguished School status in 2021, 2024, and 2026.[3]
Darnell attributed the success to sustained collaboration with Reedley College. The district celebrated the milestone, noting its rarity in Fresno County. Superintendent John Campbell viewed such achievements as a call to expand opportunities across Kings Canyon Unified.[4][5]
Key Takeaways
- RMCHS stands alone in Fresno County for the 2026 award, one of 32 statewide.
- 90% of graduates expected to earn college credentials alongside high school diplomas.
- Proven pathways prepare students for universities and careers without delay.
This recognition underscores how targeted dual enrollment can accelerate student trajectories. As more schools adopt similar models, Reedley Middle College High sets a benchmark for equity and outcomes. What do you think about expanding such programs locally? Tell us in the comments.
