EMC Tips for Parents & Students
How to Support Success in the Early Middle College Program
The Early Middle College experience sets students up for college and career success—but it also comes with new responsibilities. Here’s how students and families can stay informed, connected, and confident every step of the way.
1. Logins Matter: Know How to Access GOCC Tools
Students should be able to log in to:
- myGOCC - your student portal
- Glen Oaks student email
- Canvas (learning management system)
Tip for Parents: Have your student show you they can log in and navigate these platforms. Encourage them to check their GOCC email daily for class updates, instructor messages, and EMC notifications.
2. Understand Class Schedules & Formats
Students should verify:
- Class days and times
- Whether a course is online, hybrid, or in-person
- Semester length (some start/end dates differ from high school)
If classes overlap with high school hours, students must coordinate directly with both their Glen Oaks instructor and high school teacher to arrange make-up work or attendance plans.
3. Show Up and Engage
EMC students are expected to:
- Attend every class
- Participate actively
- Complete all assignments on time
Review each course syllabus carefully to understand expectations, deadlines, and grading policies.
4. Know What’s Covered—And Ask Before You Buy
Most textbooks and required supplies are covered by your local school district.
Before purchasing or renting textbooks, check with your high school guidance office to confirm what's already provided.
5. Online Classes Require Self-Motivation
If your student is in an online course:
- They’ll need strong time management skills
- Daily engagement is essential—these are not self-paced courses
- Set a routine and check in regularly about progress
6. Check Progress in Canvas
Grades, assignments, and feedback live in Canvas, the online learning platform.
Tip for Parents: Ask your student to log in with you. This is a great way to stay aware of academic progress and support them early if challenges arise.
7. Communication Is Key
Encourage your student to:
- Reach out to instructors with questions or concerns
- Respond promptly to messages
- Attend monthly EMC meetings either at Glen Oaks or their high school
Instructors and EMC staff want to help—but students must take the lead in asking for it.
Check your GOCC email daily!
8. Use Academic Support Services
Glen Oaks offers free tutoring and academic help at the:
- Tutoring & Testing Center in the Learning Commons
Call (269) 294-4295 to check tutor availability - Academic Hour at the high school (check local schedule)
9. Stay Connected With EMC and High School Staff
- Students are expected to check in with EMC staff twice a month
- Watch for text alerts and email reminders about on-site high school visits
- Keep in touch with your high school counselor—they’re an active partner in EMC support
Tip for Parents: You’re part of the support team too! Feel free to contact EMC staff directly with any questions or concerns.
Final Thought
Success in Early Middle College comes from planning, communication, and support. By working together—students, parents, counselors, and EMC staff—we can help every student make the most of this powerful opportunity.