SWC News Center

From High School to Higher Ed: Options Middle College High School Opens Doors at SWC

By: Stephanie Kingston - August 8, 2025

In a bold move to transform lives and broaden access to higher education, Southwestern College (SWC) has welcomed Options Middle College High School (Options MCHS) to its Chula Vista campus. This collaboration with the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD) is designed to uplift students who have often felt overlooked or underestimated, helping them discover that college is well within their reach.

“Options Middle College High School exemplifies the college’s mission to deliver affordable, high-quality higher education early, " explained Dr. Mark Sanchez, Superintendent/ President of Southwestern College.”We know research has shown early exposure to a diverse college environment is critical to building student confidence, independence, and academic self-esteem.” 

As a result, SWC and SUHSD teamed up to remove those barriers.  Options MCHS program is now housed on Southwestern College’s campus. By blending rigorous academic preparation, early exposure to college, and robust support services, Options MCHS empowers high school students to earn a high school diploma  and college credits simultaneously, graduate on an accelerated path, and position themselves for success in four-year universities and careers.

“This collaboration is about impact that can't be measured,” said Assemblymember David Alvarez “It is a pathway to opportunity—a bridge that connects high school students directly with college-level learning and experiences that will shape their futures. And for many students in this community, it means being the first in their families to attend college. That’s a powerful thing.”

The program is also aligned with SWC’s commitment to closing equity gaps in education. “Options is about equity, access and diversity making sure all students have a real chance at success and to build the community we deserve, stated Dr. Moises Aguirre, Superintendent of Sweetwater Union High School District.

A WASC-accredited high school program, Options employs 10 teachers in 10 classrooms in addition to a high school counselor, college advisor and peer mentors from SWC.  Students may participate in extracurriculars at their own home school or Bonita Vista High School. Classes begin August 12 and are still currently enrolling students.  For more information, visit Options Secondary School – A Unique Learning Community.