Prichard Hall, a dorm at Fairmont State University, has provided on campus housing to youth in foster care during the current academic year. (Amelia Ferrell Knisely | West Virginia Watch)
Fairmont State University says it will no longer house foster children in a dorm on campus beginning in June. The university had been running a unique state-backed program to provide housing and educational support to foster kids, some under 18 years old, on its campus amid the state’s shortage of homes for foster children.
The program, known as Middle College, will transition to “a campus-based support program model with off-campus housing” for youth in foster care, according to university officials.
“As we welcome more students to Fairmont State, we recognize that meeting the needs of both Middle College and our broader student community requires continuous change,” said Fairmont State University President Mike Davis on Thursday. The program is in partnership with KVC West Virginia and the state’s Schools for Diversion and Transition.
“These changes are just the beginning, and we remain committed to seeking innovative ways to serve this vulnerable sector of our community and support their journey toward growth and success,” Davis added.
The announcement follows a Times West Virginian article that said at least one child ran away from the program and was located in Kentucky. The child had already run away from campus as Gov. Jim Justice and state leaders celebrated the program’s launch Sept. 20.
“As with any new endeavor, there have been adjustments and changes to the Middle College program since its inception. One key decision by the partners in the program was to create an off campus living opportunity,” she added.
The updated program will offer support for youth living in off-campus housing, either in a setting managed by a Middle College partner or with a relative caregiver or foster parent within driving distance of Fairmont. Reliable transportation must be available, according to a news release from the university.
The program is still available to foster children statewide.
“KVC West Virginia is working closely with our partners to identify the best off-campus housing solution. Our goal is to ensure a solution that provides a safe, supportive and enriching environment where Middle College students can continue to thrive,” Santiago said. “These updates don’t limit the program to local students. In fact, Middle College is expanding to serve more youth by offering flexible housing options.”
The program will also focus on helping students in foster care obtain a high school diploma and a two-year associate degree (or two years of college credit toward a bachelor’s degree). Tuition is paid for by federal and state dollars.
Program participants will have access to KVC West Virginia community-based support services, including outpatient mental health therapy.
“Middle College isn’t only about academics – it’s also about helping youth navigate adulthood with confidence and purpose,” said Erin Keltner, president of KVC West Virginia. “These updates will strengthen our partnerships and ensure that every Middle College student has the opportunity to thrive, both during and after their time at Middle College.”
Prichard Hall, which is currently housing foster children in the program, will reopen as general campus housing in fall 2025. The university said it has a growing need for on-campus housing.
There are 6,080 youth in West Virginia foster care. Around 31% – the highest rate – of the state’s foster children are 13-17 years old.